The installation ceremony, held on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Four Points by Sheraton Kigali, brought together senior Rotary leaders, club members, Rotaractors, Interactors, and friends of Rotary from across the country. The event celebrated the outgoing leadership’s achievements while setting the tone for a new year of service-driven initiatives.

Assistant District Governor (ADG) Rtn. Jwala Vijay Kumar praised Rotary’s sustained impact in Rwanda, highlighting the organisation’s long-standing role in advancing community development across multiple sectors, including education, health, water, and environmental sustainability over the last 60 years. He noted that Rotary’s strength lies in its community-driven approach, which begins with identifying local needs and responding through practical interventions.

“Rotary works because we first listen to communities and understand their real needs. From clean water to education and health, we respond with sustainable solutions that create lasting impact,” he said.

Outgoing club president Rtn. PHF Samuel Nzeki Munyao highlighted a year marked by strategic growth, expanded membership, and increased community impact. He noted that the club successfully implemented its annual goals through a structured five-year strategic plan developed collectively by members.

One of the most significant milestones, he said, was the doubling of club membership during the 2025–2026 Rotary year, driven largely by increased member engagement and participation in leadership roles.

“The moment people feel they are contributing meaningfully, they become more attached to the club and bring others along,” Munyao stated, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in membership growth.

He also pointed to the club’s successful acquisition of a District Grant through The Rotary Foundation, which supported key service projects, alongside increased contributions to the Rotary Annual Fund.

Community projects and impact

Throughout the past year, the Rotary Club of Kigali Karisimbi implemented a series of community-focused initiatives aligned with Rotary’s global areas of focus.

Among the standout activities was a professional logistics and road safety training programme conducted for drivers from both public and private institutions. The initiative aimed to improve defensive driving skills and enhance safety along regional transport corridors.

The club also continued work on infrastructure support in education, including the ongoing rehabilitation of EP Ntungamo Primary School in Muhanga District, reflecting its long-standing commitment to improving learning environments for children in underserved communities.

Environmental sustainability also featured prominently, with members participating in a tree-planting initiative at Rugabano Tea Estate in partnership with Rotaract Rwanda and Silverback Tea Company. The activity was part of broader efforts to promote environmental awareness and climate action.

Munyao noted that the club’s achievements were anchored in teamwork, structured planning, and member participation. He noted that the strategic plan developed during his tenure laid out short-, medium-, and long-term objectives that will continue guiding the club’s work in the coming years.

He expressed confidence in the incoming leadership, citing a strong succession process and collaborative spirit within the club.

New president outlines priorities

In his inaugural address, Rtn. PHF Hem Raj Sharma expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and paid tribute to the outgoing leadership for laying a strong foundation of service and growth.

He reaffirmed that Rotary’s mission goes beyond titles and formal roles, stressing that the organisation’s true purpose lies in community impact.

“Rotary is about touching lives and responding to real needs in society,” he said.

For the 2026–2027 Rotary year, Sharma outlined two flagship priorities that will guide his presidency: education support and clean water access.

The club, which also unveiled a new board during Sunday’s installation, plans to expand educational sponsorships for underprivileged but high-potential students across Rwanda, ensuring access to quality education for those facing financial barriers.

In addition, the club is advancing a clean water project in the Karisimbi area, valued at over 30 million Rwandan francs. The project, which is already underway, is expected to be completed and handed over to the community by early 2027.

“These projects are not just interventions; they are long-term investments in dignity, opportunity, and public health,” Sharma noted.

With new leadership in place, the Rotary Club of Kigali Karisimbi is positioning itself to build on its recent achievements while deepening its impact in education, health, environment, and community empowerment.

As members transition into the new Rotary year, the club’s leadership emphasised continuity, collaboration, and sustained service delivery as guiding principles.