Emmanuel Katongole: Rotary Transforms Lives
Rotary International Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole shared one of the most moving testimonies of the night.
Growing up in a small village, Emmanuel almost missed his chance at education because his family could not afford school fees. A Rotarian stepped in, mentored him, and gave him the opportunity to study. That act of kindness set him on a path that would eventually see him become a business leader, Chancellor of Nkumba University, and now an international Rotary leader.
“What that Rotarian did for me is what I challenge you to do through this Rotary Club — create many more Emmanuels,” he urged.
He reminded the audience that Rotary’s work goes beyond individuals:
Polio Eradication: Once crippling 400,000 children annually, polio has been reduced to just six cases worldwide this year — thanks to Rotary’s $1.5 billion investment and countless volunteer hours.
Environmental Action: In Uganda, Rotary has planted millions of trees to fight climate change, with new partnerships like Uganda Breweries committing 400 million shillings to continue this work.
“Rotary is about protecting lives and protecting our future,” Emmanuel said.
Jimmy Mugerwa: Be a Rotarian, Not Just a Member
Corporate Partnerships Chair Jimmy Mugerwa called on the pioneers of QCIL’s club to aim higher than just membership.
“There is a difference between being a member of a Rotary Club and being a Rotarian. A member pays dues and attends meetings. A Rotarian is a person of action, someone who looks for issues in society and chooses to solve them.”
He emphasized that Rotary changes not only communities but also the individuals who serve:
Rotarians grow as leaders.
They build confidence and networks.
They discover skills and strengths they never imagined.
Jimmy also reminded everyone that Rotary must be joyful.
“Rotary without fun is not Rotary. We laugh, we celebrate, we dance — and in the process, we build stronger bonds while we do good in the world.”
His charge to the new club was simple but powerful:
Be intentional in service.
Visit and learn from other clubs.
Serve, grow, and have fun along the way.
A New Chapter
QCIL’s new Rotary Club is more than just an addition to the Rotary family; it is proof that corporate institutions can marry business with service to create lasting community impact.
From health camps and STEM education programs to environmental conservation, this club is set to amplify QCIL’s longstanding commitment to improving lives.
For Rotarians, the message is clear: stay vibrant, stay impactful.
For those considering joining: the opportunity is here — to serve, to grow, to belong.
Because at QCIL, Rotary has truly found a home.