Renowned industrialist and philanthropist Emmanuel Katongole has been elected as a Rotary International Director, marking a significant milestone in his career, blending business acumen with humanitarian service.
His election, announced during the ongoing Rotary Conference in Mauritius, is a recognition of his commitment to community development and global progress, which aligns with Rotary International’s mission to promote peace, combat diseases, and uplift local economies.
Katongole is the co-founder and chairman of Quality Chemical Industries Ltd (QCIL), a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer in Africa.
Under his leadership, QCIL transitioned from a pharmaceutical distributor focused on animal health into a key player addressing critical health needs on the continent by providing affordable medicines.
His academic background, with a Master of Arts in Economic Policy and Planning and a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Makerere University, has equipped him with a strategic approach to business and economic development.
On the global stage, Katongole has made his mark as a member of the Initiative for Global Development’s Frontier 100, a network of influential business leaders from emerging markets.
His leadership extends across various sectors, having served as the first Chairman of the Uganda National Oil Company, former Chairman of Mauritius Union Assurance (U) Ltd, and former Board Member of Absa Bank (U) Ltd. Currently, he chairs the Advisory Board of TLG Capital Ltd, a London-based private investment firm, influencing key markets internationally.
Katongole’s commitment to public service is equally commendable. In April 2020, President Yoweri Museveni appointed him to chair Uganda's National Response Fund on Covid-19, where he led the country's pandemic response efforts.
His contributions to education and faith-based initiatives are also noteworthy.
In 2021, he was appointed Chancellor of Nkumba University, and later that year, Pope Francis honored him as a Papal Knight for his extensive community work.
Katongole’s Rotary journey is equally distinguished. He began at the club level with the Rotary Club of Muyenga, eventually serving as Club President and taking on roles at the district level, including Uganda Country Chair and Assistant Governor.
His tenure as the inaugural District Governor of Rotary District 9211 (Uganda and Tanzania) in 2013-14 was a defining moment, driving significant growth and service initiatives in the region.
Internationally, Katongole has held prominent roles within Rotary, including Chairman of the Peace Major Gifts Initiative Committee.
A dedicated supporter of the Rotary Foundation, he is a member of the esteemed Arch Klumph Society, Bequest Society, and Paul Harris Society.
His service record includes participation in over 20 Rotary International Conventions and 24 District Conferences.
Notably, he was instrumental in establishing the Mengo Hospital-based Rotary Blood Bank and played a pivotal role in founding the Makerere University Rotary Peace Center.
Katongole’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have earned him numerous accolades. In 2013, he was named the East African Winner at the Ernst and Young World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards and was inducted into the World Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame.
He is also a recipient of the Africa Business Leadership Award and the Africa Entrepreneurship Award.
His election as Rotary International Director underscores his unwavering commitment to service, both in Uganda and globally.
At a time when Rotary International is intensifying efforts to promote humanitarian service, economic growth, and global peace, Katongole’s leadership will inspire Rotarians worldwide, as he continues to make a lasting impact on communities across the globe.