Preview of the RI President’s Visit to Uganda (February 20–22)
Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo recently completed a busy three-day visit to Uganda from February 20 to 22. This visit was a special opportunity to highlight the good news of our humanitarian work across the country, focusing on health, peace, and supporting our local youth leaders.
Hosted by Districts 9213 and 9214, the visit allowed President Arezzo to see firsthand how our members are putting "Service Above Self" into action. From meeting with government leaders to visiting project sites, the focus remained on the meaningful impact we can create when we work together.
Hands-on Service
President Arezzo didn't just observe; he took part in service activities that show the heart of our mission. His visit to key sites showcased Uganda as a leading example of how collective effort can improve health and prevent disease in our communities.
VIEW EVENT GALLERYThis successful visit is a collective "thank you" to all the members and leadership teams who worked hard to showcase our projects. It is a reminder of the good we do when we focus on building a better future for everyone.
Preview of the RI President’s Visit to Uganda (February 20–22)
Kampala, Uganda
Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo concluded a dynamic three-day official visit to Uganda from February 20 to 22, highlighted by high-level engagements, community service events, and the launch of major health and development initiatives. Hosted by Rotary District 9213 and Rotary District 9214, the visit showcased Uganda as a hub of Rotary’s humanitarian impact in health, disease prevention, peacebuilding, and youth leadership.
During the visit, President Arezzo toured key project sites, met with government leaders, Rotarians, and partners, and participated in hands-on service activities demonstrating Rotary’s “Service Above Self” ethos.
Key Projects Launched and Highlighted During the Visit
1. Oxygen for Life – Oxygen as a Service Project
The project introduces a sustainable “Oxygen as a Service” model to ensure continuous and reliable medical oxygen supply for mothers and newborns experiencing respiratory distress. The initiative strengthens emergency obstetric and neonatal care systems while reducing preventable maternal and infant mortality.
2. Mama Toto Care Global Grant (USD 500,000)
The Mama Toto Care programme is a USD 500,000 global grant aimed at strengthening maternal and newborn health services across selected districts. The initiative supports health worker training, provision of essential delivery and newborn care equipment, and improved facility readiness for safe childbirth services.
3. Bone Marrow Transplant Initiative
This initiative supports efforts toward establishing Uganda’s first Bone Marrow Transplant capability to serve patients with sickle cell disease, blood cancers, and other severe blood disorders, reducing reliance on costly overseas treatment.
4. Polio Immunization Drive
The immunization outreach reaffirmed Rotary’s global commitment to polio eradication through sustained vaccination campaigns and collaboration with local health authorities.
5. Mega Community Health Camp
The health camp delivered free medical screenings, treatment services, and health education to underserved communities, expanding access to essential healthcare services.
6. Support to Nakasero Blood Bank
The visit highlighted Rotary’s continued support for blood donation initiatives and partnerships that strengthen Uganda’s national blood supply system, critical for maternal emergencies and trauma care.
7. Peacebuilding and Youth Leadership Engagements
President Arezzo engaged with peace fellows and young leaders, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to sustainable peacebuilding and youth empowerment through leadership development initiatives.