The President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo, accompanied by his spouse Ann Maria Criscione-Arezzo, arrived in Uganda this morning for a high-level official visit that is set to highlight the country’s growing impact in Rotary-led humanitarian service across health, peacebuilding, and community development.
His arrival marks a significant moment for Rotary in Uganda and across Africa, positioning the country as a leading example of how coordinated service, strong partnerships, and community-driven solutions can deliver measurable and sustainable change.
Over the course of his visit, President Arezzo will engage with Rotary leaders, partners, and beneficiaries while touring a series of flagship projects that demonstrate Rotary’s commitment to its Areas of Focus.
Among the key engagements is the Maternal and Child Health “Oxygen for Life” project at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, where Rotary interventions continue to provide life-saving oxygen support to mothers and newborns.
In a major milestone aligned to this visit, Rotarians will also launch the Mama Toto Care Global Grant valued at USD 500,000, aimed at strengthening maternal and child health services across multiple districts in Uganda.
President Arezzo’s itinerary also includes a visit to the Makerere University Rotary Peace Centre, a critical institution in training peacebuilders and advancing conflict resolution across the African continent. The visit underscores Rotary’s continued investment in peace as a cornerstone for sustainable development.
In the health sector, he is expected to tour the Nakasero Blood Bank, which plays a vital role in supporting safe blood transfusion services, and the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) Bone Marrow Transplant Unit in Lubowa, a pioneering facility advancing specialized treatment for blood disorders and cancers.
Rotary’s longstanding commitment to disease prevention will also be on display during a Polio Immunization Drive at Jjanyi Health Centre, led by Rotary Clubs including Blue Hearts, Kajjansi, and Kampala South, reinforcing the global push toward a polio-free world.
Additionally, a Mega Health Camp hosted by the Rotary Club of Medical Stars in Kajjansi will provide essential medical services to underserved communities, demonstrating Rotary’s direct community impact.
Youth engagement remains central to the visit, with planned interactions with Rotaractors and participants of the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) in Lweza, highlighting the role of young leaders in shaping the future of Rotary and driving innovation in service delivery.
The visit will also feature high-level engagements including a press conference, a Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner, and a Membership Gala Dinner at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where Rotary’s philanthropic achievements and membership growth will be celebrated.
Speaking on the significance of the visit, District Governor Geofrey Martin Kitakule (Rotary District 9213) noted that President Arezzo’s presence affirms the strength of Rotary’s collaborative model and its ability to transform lives through sustained service.
District Governor Christine Kyeyune Kawooya (Rotary District 9214) emphasized that Uganda’s Rotary projects, particularly in peacebuilding and maternal health, are aligned with Rotary International’s strategic priorities and continue to position the country as a hub of impact.
Rotary International Director for Zone 22 (Africa), Emmanuel Katongole, highlighted the broader regional importance of the visit, noting that Africa’s growing contribution to Rotary’s global mission is evident in the scale and depth of its health and development initiatives.
Past District Governor Kenneth Wycliff Mugisha reflected on Rotary’s evolution in Uganda, underscoring the importance of youth-focused programs such as Rotaract and RYLA in building a pipeline of ethical and service-driven leaders.
As President Arezzo’s visit unfolds, Uganda stands ready to showcase not only its achievements, but also its ambition to deepen impact, expand partnerships, and continue leading in Rotary’s mission of Service Above Self.
