Uganda is hosting Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo, a visit that leaders within the Rotary fraternity say underscores the country’s growing influence and strategic importance within the global Rotary movement.
The visit was confirmed on Thursday by Emmanuel Katongole, a Ugandan Rotarian, who announced the development on social media, describing it as a moment of pride and global recognition for the country.
“Uganda is honoured to welcome Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo,” Katongole said in a post shared online. “This visit reflects Uganda’s continued strategic importance to Rotary International and affirms the country’s growing impact, relevance, and footprint across the Rotary family.”
Rotary International, a global service organisation with more than 1.4 million members worldwide, focuses on humanitarian service, peacebuilding, disease prevention, education and economic development. Uganda hosts dozens of Rotary and Rotaract clubs that are actively involved in health, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, education and community development projects.
According to Rotary officials and posts shared by Ugandan Rotarians on social media platforms, Arezzo’s visit is expected to bring together Rotarians and Rotaractors from across the country to showcase unity, professionalism and the impact of Rotary-led service initiatives.
“It is an important moment for all Rotarians and Rotaractors to come together, demonstrate unity, and showcase the strength, professionalism, and service of Rotary in Uganda,” Katongole added.
Online commentary from Rotary-affiliated accounts has described the visit as an opportunity to highlight Uganda’s contribution to Rotary’s global agenda, particularly in areas such as public health, youth leadership and community-driven development.
Rotary International frequently uses presidential visits to strengthen ties with national chapters, assess ongoing projects and inspire local members. Uganda has in recent years attracted international attention within Rotary circles for its active membership base and large-scale service projects implemented in partnership with local communities and development organisations.
As the visit unfolds, Rotarians say it places Uganda in the global spotlight and reinforces the country’s role within Rotary International’s mission of service above self.
“A proud nation. A moment of global attention. Let us unite for good,” Katongole said, echoing Rotary’s current theme and the sentiment shared widely across online platforms by Ugandan Rotary members.
