The Rotary Club of Kampala, one of Uganda's oldest and most influential service organizations, has installed its 70th President and 70th Board, marking a significant milestone in a legacy of community service that predates Uganda's independence.
The leadership transition saw outgoing President Jackie Ayuya hand over the mantle to Shem Nnaggenda Nsubuga, who now takes charge of the club as it celebrates 70 years of service and impact across Uganda.
Widely known as the "Grand Arch Club," the Rotary Club of Kampala has played a pivotal role in supporting health, education, economic empowerment, water and sanitation, and community development initiatives over the decades. The installation ceremony not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for an ambitious future vision.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, outgoing President Jackie Ayuya reflected on the achievements realized during her tenure, highlighting the club's commitment to community transformation.
"Handing over the mantle today fills me with immense pride. Over the past year, our team worked tirelessly to build on the legacy of the Grand Arch Club. We have strengthened our impact through health interventions, economic empowerment initiatives, and projects that support sustainable community development," Ayuya said.
The event attracted Rotary leaders from across the country, including District Governor Geoffrey Kitakule, who commended the club for maintaining its position as a leading force in service and community development.
"The Rotary Club of Kampala continues to be a shining beacon of service. The installation of the 70th Board is not only a celebration of continuity but also a demonstration of the club's commitment to visionary leadership and community impact," Kitakule said.
As the club enters its Platinum Year, the new leadership unveiled an ambitious strategic framework dubbed Strategy 777, which will serve as a roadmap toward the club's centennial celebrations.
The strategy is built on three key targets: recruiting 70 new quality members, launching 70 new community projects, and raising $70,000 to support service initiatives.
Incoming President Shem Nnaggenda Nsubuga said the strategy is designed to deepen the club's impact while positioning it for long-term sustainability.
"Behind every number in Strategy 777 is a human story. It is about children accessing education, families receiving clean water, mothers obtaining healthcare, and young people gaining skills and opportunities. This is a unique opportunity for us to dream bigger, serve better, and create lasting change in our communities," Nsubuga said.
He pledged to preserve the club's legacy while strengthening its capacity to address emerging social and economic challenges facing communities across the country.
The Rotary Club of Kampala's 70th anniversary comes at a time when Rotary Uganda continues to register significant growth, making Uganda one of Africa's fastest-growing Rotary countries.
For seven decades, the club has brought together professionals, business leaders, and community champions committed to creating sustainable solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges.
With a new leadership team in place and an ambitious roadmap unveiled, the Rotary Club of Kampala is positioning itself to continue shaping lives and communities as it begins its journey toward celebrating 100 years of service.