The Rotary Club of Matugga has officially installed Kato Ivan Kirumira as its fourth president for the 2026-2027 Rotary year during a ceremony attended by Rotarians, guests, and district leaders.
The installation ceremony was presided over by Gerald Obai, the District Governor of Rotary International District 9213, who formally handed over the presidential collar to Kirumira.
Speaking during the event, Obai said the installation represented more than a leadership transition, describing it as a renewal of Rotary’s commitment to community service.
“It celebrates service to the community and the renewal of Rotary’s unwavering commitment to service,” Obai said.
He noted that District 9213 was entering its final year before transitioning into Districts 9217 and 9218, calling on Rotarians to preserve and build on the district’s legacy.
“District 9213 has built a legacy of leadership, innovation, and impact—from service projects to powerful partnerships and global recognition,” Obai said.
“I urge Rotarians to build on that legacy and carry it forward—stronger, wiser, and more ambitious. Every dollar counts. Let us create history together.”
Kirumira succeeds outgoing president Bilhah Namugenyi Kayizzi, who reflected on the club’s achievements during her tenure.
Kayizzi said the club had demonstrated the power of collective service and encouraged members to continue pursuing impactful initiatives.
“The work isn’t done. We’ve proven that uniting for good makes change simple. Keep going, bring up those bold ideas, and together we shall create a lasting impact in our community,” she said.
Among the key achievements highlighted during her leadership was support for 230 pupils with scholastic materials at St. Jude Kiruagonja and Lwada Church of Uganda Primary School.
The club also partnered with Bewell Child Care to provide healthcare services to more than 1,000 residents in Kasangombe Sub-county, Nakaseke District. The initiative included polio immunization for babies at Matugga Health Centre IV and nutrition support for breastfeeding mothers and children.
Kayizzi further noted that the club contributed to cancer prevention efforts by purchasing cancer screening kits in Kololo and participated in community campaigns against malaria.
In his acceptance speech, Kirumira pledged to strengthen the club’s impact in Matugga and surrounding communities through projects focused on education, health, clean water, and youth empowerment.
“My vision is simple but ambitious: to grow our impact, strengthen our connections, and inspire more people to join us in service,” Kirumira said.
“I will focus on projects that matter—education, health, clean water, and youth empowerment—while ensuring every member feels engaged, valued, and proud to be a Rotarian,” he added.
Kirumira encouraged members to embrace active participation and service, saying Rotary’s strength lies in collective action.
“Together, we are more powerful than any individual. I encourage every Rotarian to ask themselves: How can I serve more? How can I make a difference this year? Because Rotary is not just something we do,” he said.
The club also recognized past leaders who have served as presidents since its formation, including Charles Kayondo, Nakimuli Eva, and Kayizzi.
The newly elected club board was inducted during the ceremony, which concluded with fellowship, entertainment, music, and dance in celebration of Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.”
