Africa-Press – Uganda. Former Prime Minister Patrick Amama Mbabazi has urged leaders across the country to remain grounded, responsive, and guided by the voices of the people they serve.
He said leadership is a duty of service—not privilege—and that true leaders must stay open to guidance, constructive criticism, and continuous self-improvement.
Mbabazi made the remarks as Guest of Honour at the joint leadership handover ceremony of the Rotary Club of Kololo-Kampala and the Rotaract Club of Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Nkozi, held at Hotel Africana on Saturday.
The event marked the installation of new leaders for the 2025–2026 Rotary year, ushering in a renewed commitment to service, integrity, and inclusive leadership.
In his keynote address, Mbabazi praised the Rotary Club of Kololo for its enduring service and dedication, calling the smooth leadership transition a reflection of the club’s democratic values and tradition of excellence.
“Leadership should be about humility, vision, and accountability,” Mbabazi said.
“Too often, we see individuals change once they assume office—forgetting why they were chosen in the first place. Leaders must consistently listen to the people, because their voice is your compass.”
The ceremony saw James Affricana Byekwaso officially installed as the 38th President of the Rotary Club of Kololo, succeeding outgoing president William Kaguma.
In his inaugural speech, Byekwaso laid out a bold vision for his tenure, focused on strengthening internal structures, sustaining impactful service projects, and expanding membership—all rooted in the principle of integrity.
“I’m deeply honoured and humbled to take on this responsibility,” Byekwaso said.
“We are not just a club—we are a force for positive change. My focus will be on building a stronger, more responsive Rotary that meets the needs of our communities.”
New leaders were also installed for the Rotaract Clubs of UMU Nkozi and Kololo, with Sylvia Ntongo and Binojjo Isaac Kiggundu assuming the mantle of leadership.
Ntongo thanked her predecessors and rallied her peers under Rotary International’s theme, “Unite for Good,” encouraging them to pursue both community impact and personal development.
“When we unite for good, we multiply impact. That’s what Rotary is all about—people of action transforming lives, starting with their own,” she said.
Kiggundu commended the outgoing leadership and pledged to uphold their legacy, urging fellow Rotaractors to embrace the discomforts of leadership as opportunities for growth and service.
Outgoing Rotary Club of Kololo President William Kaguma described his term as one of increased member engagement, transparency, and greater visibility of the club’s service footprint.
He thanked his wife, MD Ann Beth Kaguma, and his executive team for their consistent support.
In a symbolic close to the evening, the new and outgoing leaders shared a celebratory cake-cutting moment with Rotarians and guests, underlining the spirit of continuity and fellowship.
District Governor Maria Zaramba congratulated Byekwaso and the incoming team, reminding them of the club’s legacy since its founding in 1998 and encouraging them to uphold Rotary’s ethos.
“Leadership in Rotary is not about status—it’s about impact,” Zaramba said. “Let your actions speak louder than your titles.”
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