KAMPALA — The Rotary Club of Muyenga Forest Hills has installed Rtn. Carolyne Atuhairwe as its new President, with leaders and members pledging renewed commitment to community service and sustainable transformation.
The colourful installation ceremony was graced by the Chief Guest, Edith Tusuubira, Commissioner at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, who described the incoming president as a leader of vision, character and empathy.
The event was officially presided over by Rtn. Daniel Damulira, who commended the Forest Hillers for their determination, resilience and continued commitment to serving communities.
Addressing fellow Rotarians after her installation, President Atuhairwe called on members to embrace Rotary’s guiding principle, “Service Above Self,” as they embark on a new Rotary year.
“Service Above Self is more than a motto. It is a way of life. It reminds us that true leadership is found in lifting others up, and that the greatest reward comes from making a difference in someone else’s life,” President Atuhairwe said.
She urged Rotarians to serve with compassion, integrity and generosity, saying every member has a role to play in transforming lives.
“Let us work together with compassion, integrity and fellowship to transform lives and strengthen our communities,” she said.
President Atuhairwe further called on members to embrace practical forms of service, including volunteering in community projects, mentoring young people, supporting humanitarian initiatives and using their professional skills to address community needs.
“Every act of service matters. Service is not limited to Rotary meetings or projects; it is a way of life that can be practised every day through kindness, generosity, leadership and compassion,” she added.
In her keynote address, Chief Guest Commissioner Edith Tusuubira praised the Rotary Club of Muyenga Forest Hills for its strong legacy of service and impact in communities.
She said the club had demonstrated the true spirit of Rotary through initiatives supporting education, access to clean water, financial inclusion, consumer protection and community empowerment.
Turning to the newly installed president, Commissioner Tusuubira said President Atuhairwe had the qualities needed to lead the club to greater heights.
“Carol does not just see the Rotary Club of Muyenga Forest Hills as it is today; she sees what it can become,” Commissioner Tusuubira said.
She highlighted three key qualities in the new president — vision, character and empathy — describing her as a leader with the ability to see beyond the present, remain true to her word and understand the needs of both members and the wider community.
“Carol is a woman of her word. Her moral compass is aligned with the North Star of ‘Service Above Self,’” she said.
Commissioner Tusuubira also described President Atuhairwe as a leader with a “servant’s heart,” noting that her ability to listen and understand people would be a major strength during her tenure.
“She listens more than she speaks. And because she listens, she understands the needs of the members and the needs of the community,” she said.
However, the Chief Guest cautioned that the success of the new Rotary year would depend on the collective effort of the entire club. “Even a President with the capacity of Carol cannot do this alone. The capacity of a President is often unlocked by the commitment of the members,” Commissioner Tusuubira said.
She called upon the Board, senior Rotarians and newer members to support the president with wisdom, experience, innovation and energy.
Commissioner Tusuubira concluded by assuring the club that it was in capable hands. “We are in safe hands. We are in capable hands. We are in the hands of a woman who embodies the very best of what it means to be a Rotarian,” she said.
She added: “Under the leadership of President Carol, the Rotary Club of Muyenga Forest Hills will not just function — it will flourish. It will not just serve — it will transform.”
Rtn. Daniel Damulira, who officiated the ceremony, praised the Forest Hillers for their determination and resilience, urging them to continue building on the club’s achievements and strengthening its impact in society.
Under the leadership of Rtn. Carolyne Atuhairwe, the Rotary Club of Muyenga Forest Hills is expected to intensify its community initiatives, with a focus on sustainable development, youth empowerment, humanitarian service and partnerships that deliver lasting benefits to communities.
The installation marked a new chapter for one of Rotary’s vibrant service clubs, with members reaffirming their commitment to working together to create hope, strengthen communities and build a better world. “Together, let us live Service Above Self,” President Atuhairwe said.
