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Rotary International President’s visit ends in Shs6.8b record giving

Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo’s visit to Uganda ended with a historic $1.9 million (Shs6.8bn) contribution to The Rotary Foundation at Speke Resort Munyonyo, marking one of Africa’s strongest philanthropic showings.

Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo joins District Governors and national leaders during the Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner in Kampala.

Kampala, Uganda: Rotary leaders, donors and national figures Friday set a record as Uganda’s Rotary fraternity raised over $1.9 million (approximately Shs6.8 billion) for The Rotary Foundation, marking a historic close to the official visit of Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo.

The Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner, held on February 20, 2026, brought together Rotarians, Rotaractors, partners and distinguished guests to celebrate outstanding contributions to The Rotary Foundation (TRF) — Rotary’s global funding arm for sustainable humanitarian projects.

Presiding over the ceremony, Arezzo commended Ugandan Rotarians for their growing culture of philanthropy and consistent global impact.

“Every contribution to The Rotary Foundation is an investment in humanity. It is through your generosity that Rotary continues to save lives, promote peace, and transform communities,” he said.

The defining moment of the evening came when Rotary District Governors formally presented their district contributions.

District Governor Geofrey Martin Kitakule of Rotary District 9213 announced a contribution of $900,000, while District Governor Christine Kyeyune Kawooya of Rotary District 9214 unveiled a record-breaking $1 million commitment.

The combined $1.9 million total represents one of the strongest philanthropic showings in the region and positions Uganda among Africa’s leading contributors to Rotary’s global humanitarian fund.

District 9214 was particularly recognised for revising its giving target upward earlier in the year, ultimately surpassing projections to reach the $1 million milestone.

National Significance

The event was graced by the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, adding national stature to the occasion and reinforcing the alignment between Rotary’s service agenda and broader societal leadership.

Also in attendance were Rotary International Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole, Rotary Foundation Trustee Francis Tusubira, and Past Rotary Foundation Trustee Gata Maneke, all of whom praised the districts for unity, strategic ambition and results-driven leadership.

Rotary leaders noted that the milestone reflects intentional mobilisation, member engagement and a shared belief in “Uniting for Good.”

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