The President of Rotary International has underscored the importance of peacebuilding and community engagement as essential components of the organization’s mission to achieve harmony, which is vital for development and enhancing human life.
Stephanie Urchick pointed out that peacebuilding is a core aspect of the organization’s commitment to promoting global understanding and unity.
She shared her thoughts with journalists during a media briefing at Next Media Park in Naguru, a Kampala surburb, as part of her African Magic Tour 2025, on January 6, 2025.
Rotary International boasts a vast community of over 1.4 million members spread across more than 46,000 clubs worldwide.
Urchick elaborated that while Rotary cannot directly prevent wars, it plays a pivotal role in establishing the necessary conditions for peaceful societies through its various service initiatives.
She noted that every organisation’s action whether it’s feeding the hungry, aiding communities in recovery from disasters, providing education, or vaccinating children lays the groundwork for peace, and give hope to those who might have lost hope.
“When people are in desperate situations, they may resort to extreme measures, and Rotary aims to alleviate those hardships,” she stated.
She emphasized Rotary’s efforts in instilling hope in families and individuals, whether by enhancing living conditions or addressing pressing needs such as healthcare and education.
She emphasized membership growth saying it is critical towards creating a future where rotary’s impact continues to grow, helping those in need and bringing communities together.
Urchick highlighted the bringing in more new members to current clubs, keeping existing members engaged, and establishing new clubs for increasing membership as the strategies of strengthening membership.
She commended Uganda for its initiatives in creating new clubs and urged ongoing growth to enhance Rotary’s influence and impact.
Uganda has nearly 5,000 Rotarians and 2,700 Rotaractors, subscribing to 129 Rotary clubs and 124 Rotaract clubs.
She further noted that magic of Rotary, a notion can only be realised through expanding membership.
“We have the strongest, best organization in the world. Growing our membership ensures the magic will continue even when we’re no longer here,” she added.
Urchick also engaged the Rotary Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Institute at Nkumba University, which will facilitate research in WASH.
She engaged in discussions with Prime Minister Robbinah Nabbanja, addressing various topics concerning education, health, and sanitation initiatives, among others. Additionally, she is anticipated to preside over numerous events, including the Peace Walk scheduled for January 11, 2025, where she will serve as the Chief Walker.
