Lyantonde Rotary Club Installs New President, Donates Wheelchairs To Disabled Children

By Patience Ampaire

Lyantonde — In a spirited ceremony held at the Lyantonde School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Rotary Club of Lyantonde Metropolitan ushered in a new era of leadership and compassion with the installation of its seventh president Mr. Benoni Mugume.

The milestone event was marked not only by celebration but also by action, as the club donated wheelchairs to five children with disabilities—a powerful gesture of its continued commitment to service.

Outgoing president Dr. Kiiza Isia Banalekaki Salongo, who assumed office on July 5, 2024, used the occasion to reflect on a term shaped by grassroots projects and community outreach. Under his leadership, the club focused on tangible local contributions, such as providing gates to schools and health facilities, and raising the club’s profile through media engagement.

“These projects may not have aligned directly with Rotary International’s global priorities,” Dr. Banalekaki acknowledged, “but they addressed immediate local needs and strengthened our visibility in Lyantonde.”

He also cited challenges, particularly the demanding schedules of members, which at times impacted participation. Still, he remained upbeat about the club’s potential. “Rotary is about serving our communities. I call upon more residents to join and help us carry forward this mission,” he urged.

Incoming president Mr. Benoni Mugume, a social worker by profession, accepted the mantle of leadership with humility and determination. “I am deeply honored to serve, and I thank my family and fellow Rotarians for their unwavering support,” he said. Mugume vowed to harness his professional background to double the club’s membership and amplify its impact through more inclusive and innovative community programs.

Mr. Francis Karoota, the club’s project coordinator, applauded the previous administration’s achievements, including the construction of school latrines and classroom blocks. “We believe Mr. Mugume’s experience in social work will inject fresh energy into our initiatives,” he noted, adding that plans are underway for several transformative projects.

The highlight of the ceremony was the emotional donation of wheelchairs to five children with disabilities—an initiative that brought visible joy to families and drew admiration from attendees. The act reaffirmed the club’s dedication to supporting marginalized and vulnerable groups in the district.

Mr. Apollo Ampumwize, Country Director of Rotary Uganda, inspired the gathering with a call to action. Declaring 2025 as a “year of action,” he urged members to prioritize maternal and child health in local health centers. “Let’s make humanity our priority. Service above self must remain our guiding principle,” he emphasized.

Ms. Pauline Kemirembe, Woman Member of Parliament for Lyantonde, commended the Rotary Club’s unwavering dedication. “As a proud daughter of Lyantonde, I stand ready to support your work. Your efforts are truly transforming our district,” she said.

The installation ceremony not only signified a seamless leadership transition but also served as a powerful reminder of the Rotary Club of Lyantonde Metropolitan’s deep-rooted mission—to uplift lives and strengthen communities through service. With a dynamic new president at the helm, the club is poised to deepen its impact across the district and beyond.

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