The inauguration ceremony of the Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill, which took place at the hospital recently saw the ushering in of the Interim President, Dennis Ssentongo (C)
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Rotary fraternity in Kampala has welcomed a new force for community transformation following the induction of the Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill, a milestone that members say marks the beginning of impactful service projects, particularly in health and community development.
The colorful induction ceremony brought together Rotarians, partners, and distinguished guests to celebrate the club’s official charter, with leaders emphasizing the responsibility that comes with joining the global Rotary movement.
Dr Sr Grace Nannyondo, Lubaga Hospital’s Medical Director, being indicted into the Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill recently
Speaking at the event, the Interim President, Dennis Ssentongo, who also serves as the Lubaga Hospital Business Development Manager, underscored the significance of the day and the ambitious agenda ahead for the club.
“Thank you very much for attending this function,” Ssentongo said. “We have 56 members who are supposed to be here today, which shows how intensive and committed this club is to the Rotary cause.”
The Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill was formed in less than six months and already boasts a strong and growing membership base, a development that leaders from the mother club described as both remarkable and promising.
In his remarks, the Mother Club President, Musoke, congratulated the charter members on achieving the milestone and urged them to uphold Rotary values through meaningful service.
“I would like to congratulate you, President, and all your members, for this milestone of being chartered,” he said. “You are very lucky to be charter members. I encourage you to defend that title by doing good in the communities that we serve all the time.”
He emphasized that the real work begins after induction, calling on members to become role models in society and inspire others through their actions.
The club’s advisor echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Rotary’s long-standing tradition of service above self and urging members to embrace innovation and leadership in addressing community challenges.
Dennis Ssentongo (R), Lubaga Hospital’s Business Development Manager, and Interim President of the Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill being pinned and inaugurated recently
“Rotary has a proud tradition of service, and I want to commend each of you for taking the bold step of forming this club,” the advisor noted. “Your commitment to fellowship, leadership, and community service is what keeps Rotary strong and impactful across the world.”
A key highlight of the club’s planned activities is its involvement in a Maternal and Child Health initiative along the Masaka Road corridor. The project, which will cover 11 health centres, aims to provide essential medical equipment and train health workers, positioning the club as a critical player in improving healthcare outcomes.
“We have a Maternal and Child Health grant… that is going to provide equipment and train health workers,” the advisor said. “We are looking for more hands on the job and encourage your expertise and leadership in this direction.”
This health-focused approach aligns closely with the club’s foundation at Lubaga Hospital, giving members a unique opportunity to leverage their professional expertise to deliver sustainable solutions.
Delivering the keynote address, Past District Governor Francisco Ssemalanga congratulated the club on its charter and challenged members to focus on long-term impact rather than short-term activity.
“You are now a fully-fledged Rotary club, and the time for real work is now,” he said. “Rotary today is emphasizing impact in society, not just activity or outcomes. We are looking at creating lasting and sustainable change.”
Musoke, the Mother Club’s President hands over instruments of power to Ssentongo (R)
He illustrated the difference between impact and outcome using a healthcare analogy, noting that while delivering a baby safely is an outcome, ensuring the long-term health of both mother and child represents true impact.
Ssemalanga further urged the club to establish strong governance systems and leadership structures to ensure sustainability and growth.
“Clubs are governed professionally. You must put in place strong systems and clear leadership plans,” he advised. “This will guide your growth and ensure continuity.”
With a solid membership base, strong institutional backing, and a clear focus on health and community service, the Rotary Club of Lubaga Hill is poised to become a beacon of development in the region.
As Ssentongo and his team take the helm, the expectation is clear: to translate Rotary’s ideals into tangible projects that improve lives and leave a lasting legacy in the communities they serve.
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