Rotary District 9214 Celebrates Basic Education and Literacy at 99th District Conference and Assembly

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Speke Resort Munyonyo, Uganda – April 24, 2024

Rotary District 9214, spanning across Uganda and Tanzania, kicked off the 99th District Conference and Assembly with a vibrant celebration dedicated to Basic Education and Literacy. Themed know my school uniform, the night, which unfolded at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, was a testament to Rotary’s unwavering commitment to educational empowerment.

Distinguished guests and delegates poured into the venue, adorned in their school uniforms, paying homage to the essence of education. The atmosphere brimmed with enthusiasm and a shared dedication to Rotary’s noble causes. The conference was opened by the Chair of the District Conference and Assembly (DCA), Christine Kyeyune Kawooya, who extended her heartfelt gratitude to the attendees for their overwhelming presence and adherence to the dress code. She warmly welcomed guests from beyond Uganda’s boarders, underscoring the spirit of friendship that defines Rotary.

The address by the District Rotaract Representative (DRR), Prudence Asobola, struck a poignant chord as she appeared clad in an “End Polio” t-shirt. Asobola implored all delegates to reflect on the plight of children affected by polio, emphasizing the critical link between health and education. She urged the assembly to rally behind initiatives aimed at ensuring access to education for all, echoing Rotary’s enduring commitment to eradicating polio and promoting literacy hand in hand.

District Rotaract Representative (DRR), Prudence Asobola

District Governor Francisco Ssemwanga took center stage to unveil the district’s flagship project for the rotary year 2023 – 2024: Basic Education and Literacy. Ssemwanga underscored the transformative power of education in shaping the future and lauded clubs for their unwavering dedication to projects aligned with this pivotal cause. He highlighted the numerous initiatives undertaken by clubs throughout the district, each was evidence to Rotary’s ethos of service above self.

District Governor Francisco Ssemwanga

The night culminated in a spirited debate between representatives from Uganda and Tanzania, engaging in a friendly exchange of Rotary knowledge. The debate not only showcased the intellectual prowess of the participants but also fostered a sense of unity and collaboration across borders.

As the night drew to a close, echoes of friendship and dedication lingered in the air, in celebration of the joint contribution and impact in enabling basic education and literacy in communities far and wide. The 99th District Conference and Assembly’s opening night served as a touching reminder of Rotary’s unwavering resolve to create a world where every individual has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

DRR’s NEW YEAR MESSAGE

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New Year’s Greetings to Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, and friends of Rotary,

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible work our Rotaractors have accomplished in the past. I am even more excited about the positive impact we can create together in the upcoming year.

The year 2023 was a testament to our collective commitment to service, compassion, and making the world a better place. Despite the challenges we faced, our dedication shone through as we engaged in meaningful community projects, touched lives, and spread joy where it was needed the most.

As we usher in 2024, let us continue to embrace the theme guiding our endeavors this Rotary year: “Creating Hope in the World.” In a world that often presents us with uncertainties, our mission remains steadfast – to be beacons of hope, catalysts for positive change, and champions of compassion.

Hope is a powerful force. It has the ability to inspire, uplift, and transform lives. This year, let us channel our energy and passion into projects that not only address the immediate needs of our communities but also sow the seeds of hope for a brighter and more resilient future.

I encourage each Rotaractor to dream big, to envision the positive change they wish to see, and to take bold steps towards making those dreams a reality. Whether supporting education, promoting health and well-being, or fostering sustainable development, every action we take has the potential to create ripples of hope that extend far beyond our immediate reach.

Let us also remember the power of collaboration and partnership. Together, we are a force that can break down barriers, overcome challenges, and bring about lasting change. As we embark on this new year, let us strengthen our bonds of friendship and partnership, knowing that our collective efforts are greater than the sum of our individual contributions.

May the spirit of hope guide us in all our endeavors, and may our actions inspire hope in the hearts of those we serve. I am confident that, with your passion, dedication, and the spirit of Rotaract, we will create a year filled with positive impact, meaningful connections, and lasting hope.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with purpose, joy, and the fulfillment that comes from making a difference in the lives of others.

DRR PRUDENCE ASOBOLA

As we step into the new Year

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We’ve moved on to the next stage of imagining impact. As we embark on a new year with loftier goals, I hope it begins with a promise of a brighter future. I’d like to remind us that every contribution counts, and as the new year begins, I’d like to thank you for the work you’ve done in the first half of the Rotary year: impactful projects, mentoring new leaders, increasing our visibility, inducting new members, and improving the member experience. I’d like to encourage us to continue mentoring, supporting, inspiring, and developing incoming leaders in their new roles in order to have a greater impact.

I encourage you to recall the goals and commitments you made to your clubs when the Rotary year began. Let us renew our motivation and commitment for the remainder of the year. Continue working hard, supporting your teams and leaders, and pursuing your objectives.

The month of January is known as a “vocational service” month. This is the month when we focus on our members’ vocations and goals. During this month, I want to encourage clubs to celebrate members’ vocations and to emphasize the importance of member vocations in serving humanity. Let us focus more on our core values of leadership, diversity, integrity, fellowship, and service as we use our vocations. These are becoming increasingly important components of strategic planning because they drive the organization’s leadership’s intent and direction, inspiring us to foster and support the ideal of service in order to develop and maintain high ethical standards in human relations.

The theme of this first-ever joint DISCON at the Las Vegas hotel in Mbarara is celebrating our communities. The team in charge of arranging the conference is doing every effort to make certain that it will be the most successful gathering of its kind and that attendees will find it worthwhile to participate. At this conference, you will hear from notable figures who have demonstrated both leadership and service in their own lives. We are in a position to connect with them and network with other members of their group. Register and make your payment right away.

Happy new year 2023!

Rotaract Clubs of Bwebajja and Lubowa Adopt Bufumira Island

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Rtr. Joseph B. Ssengooba

The Rotaract Club of Bwebajja identified Bufumira Island in the Kalangala district of central Uganda in 2021. The island is one of the busiest in Lake Victoria, with fishing and small-scale farming as its primary sources of revenue. The island’s population is approximately 10,000, including both visitors and permanent residents.

The Adopt Bufumira Island Project is a comprehensive community service initiative that intends to redirect the socio-economic turbines of the Bufumira Island Project by enhancing the public health system and boosting early school enrollment.

The Rotaract Clubs of Bwebajja and Lubowa, in collaboration with the Rotary Clubs of Bwebajja Seguku, Nalumunye, and Garuga, gathered funds for the “Adopt Bufumira Island Project” to improve the socioeconomic structure of the inhabitants of the Bufumira Kalangala Islands. This project is a collaborative community initiative whose objective is to radically improve the quality of life for the inhabitants of Bufumira Island by providing services that fit under the seven (7) Rotary focus areas.

The effort was motivated by the island’s complete neglect. The lack of adequate amenities in the aforementioned sectors has subjected the inhabitants to a deplorable standard of living that is characterized by abject poverty, illiteracy, poor water, and poor sanitation, which has spawned a resounding need to provide plausible solutions to these pertinent issues in order to avert any impending catastrophes on Bufumira Island.

This phase of the project addressed the three Rotary focus areas : basic education and literacy, environmental support, and water hygiene and sanitation. To boost basic education and literacy, we presented 150 pupils at Bufumira Primary School with school bags, textbooks, and other academic supplies. We planted fifty fruit trees on the school’s grounds in an effort to protect the environment. We feel that these trees will not only supply food but also shade for the pupils, thereby improving the study environment.

The Rotaract Earth Initiative Greater Masaka Edition

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RTR. Joseph B. Ssengooba REI Chair 2022

Ugandan Rotaractors started Rotaract Earth Initiative (REI) in April 2015 to plant 10,000 trees annually. “To solve the needs and concerns of the community and our globe,” Rotaract’s third purpose, this project addresses climate change, food insecurity, and primary healthcare issues.

REI’s 8th edition, “Focus on Impact,” took place in Masaka from October 7–9, 2022. The topic was meant to engage Rotaractors in environmental protection rather than just having fun. 180 Ugandans, Kenyans, Tanzanians, Rwandans, South Sudanese, and Sierra Leoneans attended REI Masaka.

To demonstrate the sustainable green city concept, our major project activity tripled this year. Local government, selected schools, and community environmental organizations collaborated on tree planting. Naluzaale Catholic Parish Land received almost 8,000 indigenous trees, while three secondary schools and one basic school received 1,000 fruit trees.

We held an annual Rotaract Climate Action Symposium to increase our impact. The St. Jude Secondary School Masaka Interact club organized this event on October 7, 2022, with the topic “Safe and Clean Energy Solutions for Sustainable Communities.” The symposium’s climate change speakers inspired the younger attendees. The conference included “forum theater” project execution in addition to presenters and subjects. St. Jude Senior Secondary School actors used music, dance, and theatre.

The team decided to teach primary and secondary school girls how to create and utilize reusable sanitary pads to support Rotary’s sanitation and healthy communities’ goals. We taught Kijjabwemi Secondary School menstruation health. The session drew 300 pupils and 50 Rotaractor trainers. We gave the girls 200 reusable pads and training. Young ladies and schoolgirls learned how to manufacture reusable sanitary towels using fabric and thread. We expect skilled people to aggressively manufacture sanitary towels with this capability.

We also took attendees to Eco Brixs to learn about plastic pollution, its causes, effects, sources, and future. Participants on the site visit heard about new goods, recycling regulations, and the effects of recycling, as well as plastic recycling machines. In the final Q&A sessions, we discussed potential areas of collaboration with recycling businesses and facilities as clubs, individuals, and businesses, current gaps in the fight against plastic pollution and recycling, stakeholders’ roles, and the long-term encouragement for working together and starting small to stop and combat plastic pollution.

The events provided free menstrual hygiene knowledge and skills to young women and girls in school and the community, despite the underlying physical, mental, and emotional obstacles they face. In addition, communities will benefit from the planted trees in a few years, thus they must be nurtured to maturity. Climate change will be mitigated by this.

Because REI is only hosted once a year, the few initiatives held were limited in scope and impact. On this point, the implementing organizations ask all relevant stakeholders to participate in restoring this country’s forest cover and addressing climate change issues while it is still early. This information will help concerned environmental protection organizations and Rotaract Uganda create an eco-friendly Pearl of Africa.

Looking to the Future, Message from DRRE Rtr. Prudence N. Asobola

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When we reflect back on the last 12 months, I believe we can all agree that 2022 was a fantastic year to remember. We recognize that there were some tough moments for many people throughout the world; but, now is the time to reflect on the year’s highlights, and at District 9214, we are looking forward to 2023.

I’m delighted to report that 2022 presented exciting possibilities for a larger and stronger District 9214. We were honored to host the RI President for the second year in a row, increased our membership, chartered new clubs with many still in-formation, advanced on activities of the Rotaract helping hands initiative, REI, and many other projects in Uganda and Tanzania are all reasons to be proud. Thank you to the entire team that made sure that we reach out more to our communities through service.

With our great achievements for the year 2022 and a strong foundation that was laid in 2021, we look forward to a great 2023. We are excited for what the incoming district leadership team is preparing for us to achieve in the coming rotary year. This team has been working around the clock to make sure that we receive our district goals by January 2023 and ROTs in March 2023. Keep an eye out for the unveiling of the great leaders that will serve us in the next Rotary year. We hope that it will be a collaborative effort to assess what we have done and where we need to go next.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, as we look forward to impacting communities with you in 2023.

The Exceptional District 9214, Message from District PIME Chair – Rtr. Ambition Baylon Mwiine

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The year 2022 will be remembered for the numerous opportunities and challenges it provided. I’d want to thank everyone for coming together. I am extremely proud of how exceptional district 9214 is, and it is due to all of you.

I’d want to offer my heartfelt gratitude to all of our district team members and club leaders. You are all providing an exceptional example of dedication, professionalism, and unity. You are the best assurance that District 9214 will continue growing stronger. Even in the most trying circumstances, your dedication and devotion to our communities and to every Rotaractor has been tremendous. Every position in the district is part of a fantastic team that is accomplishing great things for our towns, communities, and ourselves.

I am overwhelmed by our district’s undeniable strength and character. We, like many other groups, have been very encouraged by the outpouring of generosity we have received this year. Gratitude letters, acts of generosity, and encouraging words are powerful affirmations for the entire District 9214 team. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

As always, I’d want to thank every Rotaractors in Uganda and Tanzania who volunteered their time and worked tirelessly to raise donations for the Rotary Foundation. We are quite proud of the donations.

We continue striving to impact communities while also growing professionally and increasing our visibility. By giving chance to as many young people as possible to become Rotaractors through invitations, our district will dramatically grow bigger and stronger.

On behalf of the PIME team for 2022-2023, we appreciate you for your continuous support of the district and hope you have a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones. I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

With a great Deal of Love this Christmas, Message from the District Executive secretary – Rtr. Vivien Katusabe

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As I address you this season, my mind and heart are filled with a great deal of love, happiness, and enthusiasm. I recall the numerous sacrifices we have all made to keep our beautiful district running. Whether we are administrators, Rotaractors, or district leaders, we have all made significant contributions via our time, commitment, and effort.

Christmas is a reminder of the goodness that enters the world, despite the darkness and uncertainty that threaten it. We have witnessed throughout the year 2022 the so many Rotaractors who have   sacrificed a great deal so that our work as a district may continue. Our district leaders went above and beyond their duties to accomplish impressive things. Our club leaders have done an exceptional job of shepherding their members, always being quick to express care and appreciation. Our partners have also been available to assist us with any small or large requests. In light of the fact that it is very difficult to lose hope in the presence of excellent people, I would like to thank everyone for a job well done.

This Christmas, I want for everyone to reignite and magnify their inner kindness. Remind them, out of gratitude, that they have also been positive influences in your lives. Find solace in the knowledge that you have, in your own small way, given a great deal of good to a world devoid of it.

This holiday season, as we celebrate community and oneness in the pursuit of doing good, may we all find delight in one another’s company and inspire one another to do good at all costs. I wish everyone a Christmas filled with goodness, joy, and love. God be with us.

The Best Gift this Christmas, Message from the District Rotaract Representative – Rtr. Francis Matovu DRR 2022 -2023

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As we approach the end of 2022, I hope you will all be able to join with your family and friends to enjoy Christmas. I hope you have time to recuperate and reflect on the incredible year that I’m sure you’ve all had.

It would be remiss of me not to thank my fellow district and club leaders, our partners, and Rotaractors for their outstanding efforts. I am really proud to be a part of District 9214, and I am extremely proud of each and every one of you.

Every day can seem exhausting at times, but I know everyone works hard to provide our communities and partners with the best care possible. In typical Content Works fashion, we sought to be as adaptable as possible, strategizing with our partners and bringing on the best we could. While 2023 will undoubtedly present new challenges, we want to end the year on a positive way.

So, let the best gift we can give this Christmas be ourselves to someone who is lonely. Give oneself to someone who will rejoice in the light of our presence. Be the present that makes everyone smile. This provides relief from the hidden ache of loneliness. Take the time to share this Christmas with someone, and that same spirit of joy will spring to life within our own hearts.

Christmas represents the pinnacle of hope, joy, and good cheer. Thank you so much for your encouragement and hard work this year. We couldn’t have met so many goals without your help. “We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!”

Peace Through Service, Message from the District Governor – Rtn. Peace Taremwa – DG 2022 -2023

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Thousands of Rotarians and Rotaractors throughout the world will demonstrate the meaning of peace through service in a variety of ways during this holiday season. With the Christmas theme of “peace and hope” in mind, we will be able to reflect on the times when we gave someone, somewhere, the chance to live and enjoy life without having to struggle for survival. We may also anticipate additional opportunities to serve in the next year.

As the year 2022 draws to a close, I would want to thank everyone, everywhere, who has contributed to this year’s remarkable success. Thank you for your hard work!

As I’ve gone throughout the district, I’ve had the opportunity to witness the outstanding work performed by our clubs. In our district, no project is too large or too small for a Rotary club to tackle; all that is required is enthusiasm, dedication, and an awareness of local needs. By giving their time, energy, and innovative thought, Rotarians in District 9214 accomplish a great deal, and I encourage clubs to share their accomplishments with the public and see how it affects membership growth.

As we approach a new year and reflect on the last year, let’s consider what we can do to continue making a difference in our community. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” Gandhi remarked. What adjustments do you intend to make to your life in 2023?

We pray that the New Year brings everyone everywhere health, happiness, and joy. Thank you again for your efforts during 2022. Ann and I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!