State of the District; Celebrating Records in Growth and Giving Under DG Anne
By Rtn Sylvia Nankya
In a landmark State of the District Address, Rotary District 9213 Governor Anne Nkutu highlighted the significant strides made by the district in the 2023-2024 Rotary year.
With a focus on increasing our impact, expanding our reach, enhancing participant engagement and increasing our ability to adapt, the district has seen remarkable growth in membership, fundraising, and service projects.
Increasing Impact
A key highlight of the address was the district’s success in fundraising and utilization of the Rotary Foundation. The district set a goal to raise $764,000 for the Foundation and has so far collected $511, 242 – representing about 56% of the target for the Annual Fund. Currently, 104 clubs (80%) have contributed to the Foundation, with 78% supporting the Polio eradication campaign.
Additionally, 10,005 Rotarians have each contributed at least $25, and the district now boasts 288 Paul Harris Fellows, 73 Paul Harris Society members, 14 Benefactors, 21 Major Donors, and 3 Major Gifts. The Jjengo initiative has also raised 90 million Shillings, making it easier for members to contribute in smaller amounts.
In grant utilization, the district aimed to secure $2 million in Rotary grants. So far, 12 grants worth $923,040 have been approved, with nine more in the pipeline. Several multi-club and district collaborations have also taken shape, including:
Rowash at Nkumba (collaboration between Districts 9213 and 9214)
Pumwanyi Maternity Centre (a joint effort by Districts 9213, 9212, and 9214)
Mental health and menstrual hygiene projects, with participation from 20 clubs
The district also sought to secure five corporate partnerships and has so far brought Centenary Bank, Absa Bank, and NWSC on board. Additionally, 16 clubs have established international partnerships, further enhancing Rotary’s global outreach.
Expanding Reach
District 9213 has also registered exceptional membership growth, emerging number one in Zone 22 and fifth globally. The district set a target of 720 new members, with at least six per club, and has so far welcomed 456 new Rotarians in just seven months.
Among its innovations, the district successfully chartered a Luganda-speaking Rotary Club in Ssingo, Mityana. Plans are underway to launch three new models of Rotary clubs to cater to diverse needs. The district is also strengthening Rotary Community Corps (RCCs), with a target of 35 and three already chartered.
Rotaract growth is also on the rise, with 35 Rotaractors transitioning to Rotary, while 120% of the RYLA target has been achieved with 240 participants. The district aimed to create 10 new Rotaract Clubs and has so far launched four.
On membership retention, the district set a goal of 95%, currently standing at 89.4%. Efforts to enhance retention include the establishment of new fellowships, with the Rotary Fitness Fellowship in the advanced stages of formation.
Strengthening Compliance and Sustainability
To ensure good governance and sustainability, District 9213 has focused on compliance and financial stability. So far, 94 clubs have fulfilled their dues obligations. Additionally, 100% of clubs have set goals in Rotary Club Central, ensuring alignment with the broader Rotary mission.
Governance training has also taken centre stage, with 80% of clubs encouraged to adopt best practices. Currently, 86% of clubs are qualified for global grants, while 100% of Rotaract representation has been achieved on all District committees.
Excitement Builds for DISCON and Rotary International Convention
As the district gears up for its annual District Conference (DISCON), it has already secured 1,570 delegates, surpassing its goal of 1,000. For the Rotary International Convention in Calgary, Canada, the district set a target of 200 delegates and has impressively registered 1,129, with 167 fully paid.
Looking Ahead
DG Anne Nkutu emphasized the need for continued growth, sustainability, and impact. “Our district has shown resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to service. As we move forward, we must ensure that our efforts continue to transform lives and strengthen Rotary’s presence in Uganda and beyond,” she said.
With five months left in the Rotary year, District 9213 is on track to achieve historic milestones, cementing its place as one of the most vibrant and impactful Rotary districts globally