Club of Upper Kololo Golden Wagon ISSUE ONE
President DAN K. ALINANGE 2024 - 2025
August 2025
The Golden Wagon . Issue One 1 Rotary Club of Upper Kololo Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
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Table of Contents
4 5 6 7 8
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
5
DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
CLUB PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
PICTORIAL: 4 TH PRESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION
Messages
RC UPPER KOLOLO AND THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE YOUTH AGENDA DOING BETTER: THE POWER OF BEING INTENTIONAL ABOUT SERVICE FROM BUSESA TO IMPACTFUL LEADERSHIP: THE STORY OF RTN. DAN KITAKULE ALINANGE PASSION MEETS PURPOSE THE POWER OF TRF IN ACTION NAGURU REMAND HOME HELPING YOUTH BUILD SKILLS AND HOPE
12 16 21 18 19 20 22 23 29 25 31
PICTORIAL: PROJECTS
Remand Home 22
PICTORIAL: DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S OFFICIAL VISIT
IMPACTFUL MAJOR COLLABORATIONS
FUN & FAMILY: A MOVIE LOVER’S HAVEN
PICTORIAL: RC UPPER KOLOLO RETREAT 2025 TRIVIA, PUZZLES & GAMES
The UK Dons
UPCOMING ROTARY EVENTS CALENDAR
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The Golden Wagon . Issue One 3
MESSAGES
Editor ’ s Message
The editorial team is delighted to have reached the milestone of the 1 st Issue. The launch edition of the Golden Wagon Quarterly Bulletin registered a noteworthy success, thanks to the members of the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo who generously supported us with content and advertisements as well as other Rotarians and Friends of Rotary. The first quarter of the new Rotary Year has been action packed with the new Board under the steady stewardship of Unity President Filbert Kinyanda implementing the Board’s strategy immediately, while consolidating on the accomplishments of Magical President Dan Kitakule Alinange’s Rotary Year. In this edition, we feature the inspirational life of IPP Dan K. Alinange, various messages from leaders in Rotary as well as articles that are thought-provokingly unconventional and yet relevant us as Rotarians and friends of Rotary as well as coverage of the colourful journey of this rotary year so far. We have also been deliberate about featuring District 9213 activities as part of the year’s general strategy to work in very close partnership with the District under the capable leadership of Governor Geoffrey Marvin Kitakule. It is our hope that this edition has captured the updates as they occurred from the onset up to the date of publication, as well as the Club’s aspirations for the next quarter. We reiterate the support from our partners and those who steadily offer us professional and personal guidance as look forward to the publication of the second edition. As always, we look forward to your input, comments and suggestions on how to publish a worthwhile Bulletin. Thank you, Peter Kahindi Contact Information: Email 1:rcukgoldenwagon@gmail.com Email 2: peterkahindi2@gmail.com Telephone & WhatsApp: +256 778 777 907 Publisher: CHUNZI Technologies
All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited!
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MESSAGES District Governor GEOFFREY MARTIN KITAKULE
THE JOURNEY TO FULL ACCESS TO BASIC EDUCATION AND LITERACY IS STILL LONG
Education is the cornerstone of development; a pathway through which individuals and communities rise above poverty and create sustainable futures. In Uganda, significant progress has been made in expanding access to education through initiatives such as Universal Primary Education (UPE). Yet, challenges remain; making it evident tthat our continued support for basic education and literacy is both urgent and necessary. Statistics remind us of the task before us, as 36% of Ugandans are still illiterate. While enrollment rates are high, many children do not complete primary school. Some leave early due to poverty, child labor, lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene or early marriages. Others attend school but struggle with poor learning outcomes - too often sitting in overcrowded or no classrooms, lacking textbooks, pencils, exercise books or being taught by overstretched teachers. According to recent reports, literacy and numeracy levels among Ugandan learners remain below the desired standards, threatening the nation’s aspirations for growth and progress. Rotarians in Uganda have witnessed these realities firsthand. Across our communities, we meet children eager to learn but held back by limited resources. We encounter adults who long to read, write and count but have never been given the chance. Literacy is more than the ability to decode or read words on a page - it is the ability to access opportunities, participate in civic life, and support families with dignity. Without it, cycles of poverty, unemployment and inequality persist. This inequality is worsened when one talks about digital literacy in a world that is becoming so digital. A survey presented at the, “Building the Future of Fair and Inclusive Digital Work in Uganda,” Workshop held in 2024, highlighted Uganda’s low ICT skills and literacy levels, revealing that a lack of knowledge or digital skills prevents 75% of Ugandans from accessing the internet. An illiterate population is not an empowered population. This is why Rotary continues to place basic education and literacy at the heart of its service. Rotary clubs in Uganda have built classrooms, equipped schools with books and learning materials, provided scholarships to vulnerable children and organized adult literacy programs. These initiatives change lives - a book in a child’s hands sparks imagination; a girl who stays in school delays early marriage; and an adult who learns to read opens new opportunities for work and self-reliance. Yet our work must go further. We need to champion teacher training, strengthen partnerships with government and civil society and explore innovative solutions like digital learning to bridge the Digital Divide. We must ensure that education is inclusive, reaching the rural child, the girl child, the refugee and the adult learner alike. As Rotarians, we are uniquely positioned to make a lasting difference. Through our networks, resources and commitment to service, we can help build a Uganda where every child can read with understanding and every adult can write their own future. Supporting basic education and literacy is not charity; it is an investment in peace, progress and prosperity for our nation. Let us, therefore, renew our commitment to this vital cause. Together, United for Good, we can light the lamp of knowledge in every corner of Uganda, ensuring that no child or adult is left behind.
#RotaryEyamba District Governor Rotary District 9213
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Club President’ RTN. FILBERT KINYANDA MESSAGES
Dear Rotarians, It is my sincere honor to welcome each of you to the Unity Year, a time when we reaffirm our enduring Rotary Creed: “Service Above Self.” Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones. Yet, as we look around our communities, we know our journey is far from over. The needs remain, and our mission calls us forward with a renewed sense of purpose. As we embark on this new Rotary year, we do so with renewed energy, optimism, and unity capturing the essence of “Unite for Good,” a theme embraced by Rotary International’s leadership. Now, more than ever, we are called to deepen our connections within our club and across the communities we serve so that our impact is both effective and meaningful. In the Unity Year; • We will deepen our collaboration with corporate and civic organizations by embedding Social Corporate Responsibility (SCR) values in every project ensuring sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships that deliver real community impact. • Investing and engaging every Rotarian in Upper Kololo feels respected, invested, and engaged. We will achieve this through inclusive fellowship, leadership training, and programs that give each member a sense of belonging and purpose. • Rotary’s work extends far beyond our meetings. We will amplify our voice showcasing service through action and fellowship—to illuminate the impact of our projects in public forums and across social media platforms • Our commitment to the Rotary Foundation remains unwavering. Together, we will support local and global good through contributions that fuel transformational projects ensuring Rotary’s enduring presence in communities worldwide. We will deepen our impact through our various community service initiatives through; • Give Hope to the Youth” at Naguru Remand Home and the Go-Down community bringing mentorship, essential resources, and life skills to marginalized youth. • Keep the Little Hearts Alive” at Mbarara Referral Hospital supporting pediatric cardiac care and raising awareness around childhood heart health. • The Disease Prevention and Treatment Enhancement Project at Bwagonga Community Hospital (Kazo District) improving community health through reliable screening, treatment, and education. In all our endeavors, we serve not merely to help but to connect deeply with the people and places we impact. Whether it’s mentoring youth, preserving the environment, or promoting health and peace, each initiative, each meeting, each service effort is an opportunity to unite and uplift. I am eager to embark on this journey alongside every one of you. Let us turn this Unity Year into a time of stronger bonds, deeper impact, and genuine fellowship. Let us turn our collective vision into purposeful, measurable action. Welcome to a year of renewed purpose, shared commitment, and enduring change. Together, we shine brighter. In Rotary service and unity,
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Pictorial
The 4 th Presidential Installation: A Night to Remember PICTORIAL:
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Message - Story of Rtn Dan Kitakule Alinange
From Busesa to Impactful Leadership : The Story of Rtn. Dan Kitakule Alinange
Dan giving remarks during the graduation of the remandees in Naguru D an Kitakule Alinange, the 3rd President of the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo, has led a life
Dan experienced both love and challenge. His father worked as a senior manager at Uganda Railways, while his mother dedicated herself to teaching. Despite economic constraints, the family prioritized education, sending their children to some of the best schools in the country, including Busoga College Mwiri, Namasagali College, Gayaza High School, and Kings College Budo. Education and Early Responsibilities Dan’s early schooling began at Busesa Mixed Primary School, a modest institution without kindergartens. Life in a rural home required balancing school with chores such as cleaning, fetching water, and working in the garden— responsibilities that instilled discipline and resilience from a young age. Transitioning to secondary school, he earned a first grade and joined Namasagali College for O’ levels, later completing A’ levels at Busoga College Mwiri. These experiences exposed him
to peers from different backgrounds, shaping his perspective on opportunity, privilege, and hard work. Dan describes his childhood as well- disciplined and God-fearing, shaped by traditional parental values. Holidays were spent in the village, reinforcing the grounding that would influence his character and future leadership. Higher Education and Early Career Dan pursued a degree in Communication, a field he initially did not choose but eventually grew to appreciate. After graduation, he joined the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) as a Communications Officer, learning from industry leaders like Dr. James Mulwana and Dr. William Kalema. Seeking broader horizons, he moved to the United States for graduate school, studying at the University of Texas with support from his elder siblings. He also taught at the university and worked for several years in the US, gaining
marked by resilience, ambition, and service. From humble beginnings in the village of Busesa to leadership on the global stage, his journey is as inspiring as it is instructive. Early Life and Roots in Busesa Dan Kitakule Alinange grew up in Busesa, a small village in Eastern Uganda. He and his siblings attended Busesa Mixed Primary School, where their mother taught. The family’s deep roots in the community inspired the establishment of the Kitakule Foundation, through which Dan has supported projects like the Busesa Community Library and Hope Children’s Clinic. Each year, he joins Rotarians to run medical camps and literacy programs, giving back to the village that shaped him. Growing up in a family of eight children—four boys and four girls—
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Message - Story of Rtn Dan Kitakule Alinange
charter member, drawn by the club’s ethos of service and the alignment with his own values. During his tenure as President, he led the club to surpass all set targets, including raising over $100,000 for The Rotary Foundation. He championed the establishment of a Savings and Investments Club to empower younger members and envisioned a day when the club could acquire a permanent home in Kololo. Among the highlights of his presidency were the graduation ceremony for children at the Naguru Remand Home skilling project, and the medical camp at Nawangisa, Bugweri, which provided crucial healthcare services to underserved communities. Dan acknowledges that leadership is not without challenges, noting the complexities of volunteer management and the delicate balance of meeting diverse expectations. Reflections and Advice Looking back, Dan emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and life choices. He advises his younger self to marry earlier and start saving, reflecting on lessons learned from his personal and professional journey. As he transitions into the role of Immediate Past President, Dan expresses satisfaction in supporting the new leadership while continuing his work with the Rotary Club and his business ventures. Dan Kitakule Alinange’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, and service. From barefoot beginnings in Busesa to leading initiatives that impact communities locally and globally, his journey inspires future generations to dream big and give back.
valuable international exposure. Despite a comfortable life abroad, Dan felt compelled to return to Uganda when career advancement stalled due to organizational changes. Professional Journey in Uganda Upon returning home, Dan built a multifaceted career spanning government, private sector, and consultancy. He initially worked on a World Bank project establishing the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), later joining UNRA as Head of Corporate Communications. His work allowed him to lead and innovate in a complex, high-stakes environment. Today, Dan manages several business interests across sectors, including strategic communications, healthcare, agri-business, and leisure. His current focus is on NuLook Pressure Cleaners, a waste management company, and Samaritan Home Health, a healthcare enterprise providing employment and services to the community. Family and Personal Support Dan credits much of his success to his family, particularly his elder sisters who supported his education after the passing of their father. His brother Geoffrey Kitakule, now a District Governor, has been a lifelong companion and confidant, sharing many formative experiences both in Uganda and abroad. Dan’s wife and children have also been supportive, particularly in his Rotary initiatives, demonstrating the strength of family partnership in personal and professional life. Rotary Leadership and Community Impact Dan’s Rotary journey began after observing the strong community presence of Rotarians during his mother’s funeral. He joined the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo as a
Dan’s beautiful family
Graduate school at Baylor
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Message - Story of Rtn Dan Kitakule Alinange
PICTORIAL
With his sisters Sarah, Jessica, Harriet and other friends.
During his university days.
Dan’s very first car
Dan participating in the 8 th Chicken Sale
Dan with part of his family
Installation as the 3 rd President of the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
Dan on one of the several visits in Busesa with other Rotarians.
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District 9213 Opening Night
INSPIRE SERVE IMPACT
ISLAND OF IMPACT DRESSCODE: ELEGANT ISLAND CHIC (HAWAIIAN NIGHT)
HOSTED BY: RC UPPER KOLOLO
Registration is now open
APRIL 2026 THURSDAY NIGHT 16TH
In Partnership with
DISCON 101
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Passion Meets Purpose: Foundation Aspirations - At Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
W elcome to this year of Rotary 2025/2026, a year not different from the previous ones in terms of Rotary objective but different in terms of what Rotarians can achieve and make a lasting change in people’s lives. Every Rotary year, thousands of Rotarians globally commit themselves to service, spearheaded by a deep sense of purpose and unwavering passion. At the heart of this global impact lies a powerful engine that transforms dreams into reality The Rotary Foundation (TRF). TRF mission is to help members advance world understanding, good will and peace by improving people’s health, providing quality education, protecting environment and alleviating poverty. TRF isn’t just a fund, it channels the generosity of Rotarians into sustainable, life-changing projects that touch lives locally and globally. Since its founding in 1917, TRF has been Rotary’s backbone of service — funding thousands of life-changing projects in areas like clean water, education, maternal health, disease prevention, economic development, and peacebuilding. Whether it’s a literacy project in Uganda, a polio vaccination campaign in Pakistan, or a clean water system in Indonesia, TRF ensures that every dollar goes farther, impacts deeper, and lasts longer. In every Rotary club, there is a spark — a deep passion for service, community, and global change. However, passion alone is not enough. It needs direction, structure, and support. That is where The Rotary Foundation (TRF) steps in — turning the passion of Rotarians into powerful, purposeful action and a change maker in our communities. How it starts: “From Idea to Impact” Club members identify a pressing need in their community for example lack of medical equipment in a community Health Centre or the need for vocational training for unemployed youth, TRF steps in as a strategic partner. Through Global Grants and District Grants, the Foundation turns club projects into high- impact solutions. Global Grants, for instance, support large-scale international projects that align with Rotary’s areas of focus. They often involve partnerships with clubs in other countries and are co-funded by TRF, leveraging contributions to multiply their effect. District Grants, on the other hand, allow clubs to address local needs with greater flexibility, encouraging creative solutions and community involvement. Self Funded Projects, Some Clubs take a bold step to fund their own projects as they await grants. Members of Upper Kololo have fuelled a number of projects from funds contributed by themselves. A case in point is the Naguru Remand Home Project where Rotary Club of Upper Kololo has sustainably provided skills to the juvenile offenders including but not limited to tailoring, rabbit rearing, chicken rearing, hair dressing. The skilling in return has impacted on the lives of these juvenile offenders through economic empowerment,
The Role of Every Rotarian: “the joy of the community” TRF is like a human being that depends on air-oxygen. “Without oxygen, a person cannot live” TRF’s success depends on the commitment of individual Rotarians. In order to keep TRF alive, Rotarians must make a contribution. Every contribution whether through Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY), Paul Harris Fellowships, or the Endowment Fund creates a ripple effect that transforms lives worldwide. The Rotary Foundation is not just a fund; it is the heart of our movement. It is where our passion meets purpose. It is where dreams take shape, and hope is delivered. Let us continue / commit to give, to serve, and to lead because through TRF, our shared passion has the power to heal the world, put a smile and create joyous moments to the people. As Rotarians, when our passion meets TRF’s purpose, magic happens. We become more than volunteers; we become agents of change. The projects we support become legacies, and the communities we serve become testaments to what we can achieve together. Plan ahead: “give generously” As we look to the new Rotary year, let us renew our commitment to TRF. Let us dream together, dream big, give generously, and serve boldly because when passion meets purpose through The Rotary Foundation, the world becomes a better place. We do not have to wait to accumulate 1000 dollars, 100 dollars in order to give, every dollar counts “one by one makes a bundle”. Even small monthly contributions to TRF can fund projects that change lives. Let us walk together in service and commit to create a lasting impact in our communities. BY RTN WINFRED ANNET ARYANYIJUKA
Rotary Club of Upper Kololo TRF Director: Year 2025/2026.
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Rotary Club of Upper Kololo and the Advancement of the Youth Agenda Impactful Service World - At Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
Rotary International actively promotes the advancement of youth through various programs designed to develop leadership skills, expand education, and foster a commitment to service. These initiatives, connected to Rotary clubs, empower young people to become responsible global citizens and leaders.
A s the Rotary Club of Upper enable RC Upper Kololo partner with the youth in service but also allow the members of RC Upper Kololo to pour into the youth. We additionally believed in investing in the future of our Rotary Club by investing in the youth of today who will be our club of tomorrow. On 07 Dec 2023 the Rotaract Club of Upper Kololo in formation was launched and a couple of months later on 26 February 2024 the Rotaract Club of Upper Kololo was chartered. At the helm of the club the newly formed Rotaract Club of Upper Kololo was their Charter President Cedric Mihigo. With support, guidance and sponsorship from RC UK, Charter President Cedric Mihigo successfully steered RAC UK to a number of notable achievements. Kololo we purposed to charter a Rotaract club to not only
Membership Growth: The journey began with 30 charter members. Through intentional engagement, meaningful projects, and an inclusive club culture, RAC UK has grown to 50 active members, 4 honorary members and 1 corporate partner (Christian Blind Mission). and Community Impact: RAC UK have lived out the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” through impactful projects that cut across education, health, sanitation, environmental sustainability, and empowerment. • In partnership with the Service Projects Rotary Club of Upper Kololo, RC UK conducted their first project focusing on basic education and literacy, at St. Joseph’s
Primary School in Gulu. This laid the foundation for future partnerships and impactful service. • Together with the Rotaract Clubs of Kigo 7 Lakes Golf and Victoria University, RAC UK successfully held an Immunization & Literacy Drive in Katwe immunizing about 100 children against killer diseases (with an emphasis on polio), donated 60+ units of blood, and distributed scholastic materials to support learning. • MUVuKa Subbi Project. Partnering with 5 other Rotaract clubs, focusing on sanitation, environmental conservation, and girl-child support, RAC UK travelled to Kabale & Ntungamo
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Impactful Service World - At Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
and constructed urinals and toilets at Kakomo Primary School in Kabale, planted over 500 trees across Kabale and Ntungamo, donated sanitary pads to promote menstrual hygiene and connected the school to National Water, giving students and staff easy access to clean water. • Katabi Economic Empowerment & Needs
Response. At a Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida home in Katabi, RAC UK donated assorted foodstuffs and conducted an economic empowerment session, training mothers and children in bead and necklace making. Following a needs assessment, these families have since made over UGX 500,000 in income from their products, a true reflection of sustainable impact. The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Giving: RAC UK run a successful campaign coined “2K2UK” – where every member contributed UGX 2,000 daily. The campaign not only raised funds but built
Celebrating Excellence: Cheers to the champions
January. In January 2024, the honoured Rtn MD Hon. Adrine Kobusingye for her contributions to agriculture, youth, and women empowerment as well as Wonder JR,a musician and mental health advocate, for using his voice to heal and uplift. The RAC UK brand identity has become recognizable within the district and beyond. Through intentional efforts, Teamwork, common vision to succeed, Mother club support and collaboration the fruits of their labour under Cedric Mihigo paid off. RAC UK were recognised at the 100th DisCon with the following awards: 1. President of the Year – Cedric Mihigo 2. Rising Star Award 3. TRF Award - Tier 1 We’ve come a long way since chartering “our babies”, as we fondly call them. An overwhelming sense of pride creeps up each time we see them accomplish a milestone, achieve a target they set form themselves, partner with us to implement services projects. We have seen growth and impact from the Rotaract Club of Upper Kololo; but most of all, we have seen the initial signes of the Upper Kololo legacy, and a love for service.
a culture of giving in our club. Professional & Leadership Development (PLD) – RAC UK designed platforms that prepared members for both Rotary and life beyond the club. Starting with the Rotary/Rotaract Mentorship Program where every Rotaractor was paired with a Rotarian mentor from the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo. Legacy Project – The Aggrey Kankunda Vocational Service Award: To honour those who give back to humanity through their professions, RAC UK launched the Aggrey Kankunda Vocational Service Award, an annual celebration held every first fellowship of
BY CHRISTINE MUKASA- MUGERWA
RAC UK Installation
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Impactful Service World - At Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
Doing Good, Better: : The Power of Being Intentional About Service
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Mahatma Gandhi I ntentional service starts with us showing up, showing up with humility, with purpose, and with willingness to grow those in need. It means asking better and strategic questions, it means building stronger partnerships and putting at the center the voices of those we serve. When we do this, we move beyond charity into justice, we move beyond quick fixes into lasting impact In every corner of the world, people step up to serve in ways they hope will create impact. My 9 year old son calls these “simple acts of kindness” … raising funds for health camps, cleaning our streets, running literacy drives, planting trees, or mentoring young minds, being kind, creating impact and effecting change. But here’s the question I keep coming back to: Are we doing all this good in the best way we can? Are we putting our best foot forward or are we doing just because we believe it’s the right thing to do? For me, this question guides me to improve my service, to be intentional while serving. Because, yes doing good is great but giving it your best is transformational, and this is the heart of service. Being intentional about service means showing up with clarity, and most importantly, purpose and heart. It’s not just about what we do, but how and why we do it. In my opinion the power of being intentional about service starts with being thoughtful , Intentional service begins with the humility to acknowledge that we don’t always know what people truly need, that solutions shouldn’t be assumed and that service should be a partnership, not a performance, not a show of power. When we jump in to help without understanding the full picture, we risk reinforcing a mindset where we see others as problems to solve instead of people with stories and needs of their own. Listening first transforms service. It makes us helpers and allies, walking with communities rather than acting for them, and this kind of intentional service is guaranteed to give us well intended impact. Roger Lewin says that “Too often we give children answers to remember rather than problems to solve.” a mistake we commonly make with the communities we serve. I mentioned that being Intentional about service requires thoughtfulness and not just doing to tick a box, so before we offer our services to say a community, can we find out their history, if there are assets that already exist and how can we support? This isn’t about slowing service down. It’s about making sure every effort counts. We must always remember that every community has a unique story. If we serve without understanding that context, we risk duplicating efforts, overlooking existing initiatives, missing the real needs entirely, and that is not being intentional about service. Being intentional about service is thinking long term. While there’s nothing wrong with a one time volunteer action day or a donation or a rescue drive, I believe that intentional
serving requires that we ask the bigger questions. Questions like what happens after we leave? Is this effort sustainable? Does it empower or create dependence? For example, we know that donating clothes or delivering food to the needy is kind and even vital but is it sustainable? Is it transformational? The better thing would be to support communities with job skill programs that help people earn their own income or advocating for policy changes or supporting community farmers to tackle hunger at its root, Joel Barker puts it aptly. “Without action, vision is just a dream. Without vision, action is just passing time.” Intentional service doesn’t just shape the communities it shapes us too. We learn and unlearn with every activity of survive. To be intentional about service, we must remember to self-evaluate, to reflect and figure out the lessons learnt, the challenges, the surprises and what to do differently to give a better service. Reflection keeps us grounded and makes us more effective and compassionate volunteers. I believe that doing good service and being intentional about it means thinking bigger. It’s about transformation, not transaction, it’s about building deeper connections and creating lasting change, it’s about knowing your why and deciding the course of action. Service above self is more than a motto. It is a mindset that shapes both the giver and the receiver. Like Albert Pine says “What we do for ourselves dies with us. What we do for others, and the world remains and is immortal.” Let us commit to not just doing more but to doing better. Because service done with intention is service done with heart. BY RTN. HILDA KENGOMA
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Projects - With Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
Naguru Remand Home Helping Youth Build Skills and Hope
N aguru Remand Home, a Labour and Social Development, has transformed what might be perceived purely as confinement into a dynamic space for rehabilitation, skills development, and reintegration. In collaboration with the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo, the Home offers youths in conflict with the law a chance to rebuild, rediscover hope, and prepare for a positive future. government institution under the Ministry of Gender, Since 2022, the Remand Home has run a structured skilling programme in partnership with the Rotary Club of Upper Kololo – “Boy Child Uplifting Programme” in coordination with the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board – UVTAB, formerly Directorate of Industrial Training – DIT. The main outcome from this project has been to empower the adolescent boys and girls in remand with nationally accredited skill sets in areas like self-care, effective communication, empathy, and vocations like poultry, horticulture, tailoring, hairdressing, mushroom and rabbit rearing, among others. By the end of 2023, more than 160 young residents had earned Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT) certificates in poultry
transformed dormitories, kitchens, dining halls, and administrative blocks, creating dignified accommodation for about 150–160 children awaiting trial. Progress continued in June 2025, when Naguru hosted its first on site Juvenile Criminal Session. Presided over by Lady Justice Deepa Verma, the session resolved multiple cases and cleared the Mpigi docket,an important advance for child friendly justice. Overall, the results are compelling, with >400 youths who have earned market ready certificates in trades such as poultry, tailoring, horticulture, and hairdressing. Many return home to pursue legitimate livelihoods and often re engage with the remand home as “change agents” within their communities. At Naguru, confinement is a passage toward empowerment, one that equips young people with practical skills, emotional resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. For God and My Country BY MS. MARY KYOMUGISHA Senior Probation & Welfare Officer, Naguru Remand Home
farming, rabbit husbandry, tailoring, hairdressing, and horticulture, raising the programme’s total graduates to over 400 since inception. Alongside these formal credentials, the remand home puts equal weight on life skills and psychosocial growth. Structured lessons in teamwork, problem solving, and emotional resilience, reinforced through counselling and group therapy sessions, help participants process trauma, rebuild confidence, and adopt healthier coping strategies. Naguru Remand Home has reimagined custody as a springboard for growth. Young residents now channel their energy into team sports, individual athletics, and creative arts activities that cultivate fitness, self discipline, cooperation, and confidence. Supervised community service projects deepen their sense of civic duty and emerging leadership, while strong partnerships with the family of Rotary, community organisations, and government agencies pave the way for seamless reintegration. Former residents frequently return as peer mentors, reinforcing a self sustaining cycle of change. Founded in the 1950s, the facility once grappled with overcrowding and deteriorating infrastructure. Recent government led renovations have
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Projects - With Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
THE 8 TH SALE SPECIAL
RC Upper Kololo celebrates the 8th commercial chicken sale from its vocational skilling program. The retooled facility now delivers holistic training leading to UVTAB (Uganda Vocational & Technical Assessment Board) certification, with over 400 youth already certified in diverse vocations.
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Projects - At Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S VISIT TO NAGURU REMAND HOME
1st August, 2025 will forever be etched in the memory of RC Upper Kololo. The District Governor and our former Club Advisor blessed us with a grand visit, starting with the Club’s signature project at Naguru Remand Home and then later presided over a colourful Club Assembly at Roza Dymz Lounge.
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1. District Governor At Naguru Remand Home 2. The DG being taken around the Green House 4. The DG being given a gift from a juvenile 5. The DG planting a tree
5. District Governor Being Welcomed At Roza Dymz 6. The DG being introduced 7. District Governor and President Filbert 8. The new inductee’s being pinned by the DG
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Collaboration Over Competition - With Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
THE UK-DONS! UNITING FOR WELLNESS
Collaboration between the Rotary Clubs of Upper Kololo (aka UK) and Kyadondo (aka Dons).
T his is a collaboration between the Rotary Clubs of Upper Kololo (aka UK) and Kyadondo (aka Dons). It was formed in the spirit of one of DG Geofrey Kitakule’s goals of having more unity amongst the clubs in the District. On the evening of Friday, 8th of August, at the famous RC Upper Kololo kimeza at Roza Dymz Lounge, the idea of a joint Wellness fellowship was conceived. Typically, over a drink, Unity President Filbert Kinyanda, RC Kyadondo President Stella Arako and Club Administrator Elizabeth Kyomugisha thought; why not collaborate around a common interest- fitness and wellness! President Filbert had been an ardent hasher before his schedule got suffocated with work; Elizabeth had been a spinner and walker, while Stella is a well known wellness coach. As the whiskey went down, the idea gained momentum and traction. By 8pm that evening, a Whatapp group was created to discuss the idea. Wednesday was chosen as the day on which these proposed activities would take place, taking into consideration our club meeting dates and a name created, UK-Kyaddy. After several whatsapp brain storming sessions, a flyer was ready to go out.
After several false starts, the first walk was held starting at Omera Restaurant at Lugogo. The first walk had only 7 people including a member Zahara from D9214, Andrew Tumusiime from RC Kampala Ssese, Florence a Don and a non Rotarian Alice Gitta. We were “flagged off” by Hope Creator President Joyce Sadoori Odoki who unfortunately was engaged with District duties but she came through to cheer us on which was really heartwarming. Our walk took us to the Summit of Kololo and back to Omera where a sumptuous spread of healthy refreshments including fruits, tea with some cinnamon, gnuts and water awaited us. After stretching, we settled down to connect with one another as we partook of our meal which only cost us Ugx 20,000 per head. After this we left at leisure (at least some of us anyway) happy and excited about the next walks ahead of us. We look forward to more Rotarians, Rotaractors and friends of rotary joining us as we build a culture of health, wellness and fitness while accomplishing DG
BY RTN. ELIZABETH KYOMUGISHA
Kitakule’s objective of building club unity and cohesion. Remember, we meet at Omera Restaurant (Lugogo) every Wednesday evening at 5pm. We can do this!
22 The Golden Wagon . Issue One
Collaboration Over Competition - With Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
Fun & Family; A Movie Lover’s Haven
T he Movie fellowship was originally conceived by of the Rotary Club of Kiwatule. It has been on for the last twelve years and runs every last Wednesday of the month at the Cineplex cinema at Acacia Mall. Over the years they have collected over towards projects. They are also behind the Annual 5A Side soccer gala that engages over 30 clubs across District 9213. As a 3 year old club, we seek to learn from those that have gone before us. The innovativeness especially around member engagement is one that we at RC Upper Kololo are looking to learn from. So it was exciting when the Unity President of RC Kiwatule Henry Katongole invited our President Filbert Kinyanda to collaborate along with the Rotary Club of Kampala Sunshine in the monthly movie fellowship. This not only engages members but also puts real money in our project coffers as 50% of the ticket price/collection goes to the club. Engaging people over preferred activities is a win-win situation as they not only give but also receive tangible benefits such as entertainment, wellness and social networking. This being a Unity year, DG Geofrey Kitakule has actively encouraged collaboration over competition. This is especially important as the pressure to win awards, was slowly building a culture of unhealthy competion which was threatening to override the purpose of Rotary which is Service.
I was proud of our club that our first outing on Wednesday 27 August saw us raise UGX 200,000 towards our projects. Despite the late publicity and various fundraisers ongoing in the same week iincluding Rotary Cancer run and wedding pledges to our member Owen Nahamya’s wedding function, we still managed to sell 20 tickets. This points to the generosity of the club members. Personally, I used this opportunity to merge my two loves; my family and Rotary over popcorn and a beautiful movie story- ‘Nobody II.’ But you know what excited me the most? It was the fact that my family contributed in their own little way towards helping humanity. Transferring that UGX 200,000 to the club project treasury brought a certain warmth to my heart. Our goal as a club is to raise at least USD 1000 per year from the sale of these movie tickets which means we need to sell at least 40 tickets per month in the subsequent ones. I invite you all to participate in this win win opportunity to merge fun, family and Rotary.
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Retreat - Rotary Club of Upper Kololo
PICTORIAL: RC UK RETREAT 2025
RC Upper Kololo members, in the company of the ever-green and motivational Ethan Musoloni took time off to reflect on the club activities for the year as well as a review of the club leadership and responsibilities. It was a most rewarding experience!
The Golden Wagon . Issue One 25
In Support of the Africa Peace Fund #APeaceConcert25
Uniting for sustainable peace
Scan to register
31-10-2025
Speke Resort Munyonyo
15H (GMT) 18H (EAT)
In partnership with
26 The Golden Wagon . Issue One
District 9213
INSPIRE SERVE IMPACT
(Exclusive of Lunch) EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FOR ROTARIANS $149 $99 FOR ROTARACTORS DEADLINE: 31ST OCTOBER 2025
DATE
VENUE
16-18 APRIL 2026
Imperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe
Registration is now open
DISCON 101
In Partnership with
The Golden Wagon . Issue One 27
28 The Golden Wagon . Issue One
TRIVIA, PUZZLES & GAMES
Quiz
PART 1 1.
(7) Capital city of Uganda
2. 3. 4.
(7) Rotary’s guiding set of principles ___ “The ___ Test” (8) Large lake shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania
(8) Currency used in Uganda
5. (5) Kampala-based club where Rotary in Uganda was first established 6. (9) Title for Rotary members who lead a club 7. (5) Rotary’s global fight against this disease 8. (8) Local government unit in Uganda; Rotary often partners with them for projects
PART 2 1.
(5) Country to the west of Uganda (8) Rotary’s international headquarters city (5) Rotary’s core value: “Service ___ Self”
2. 3. 4.
(5) Uganda’s national bird
5. (4) Rotary’s annual leadership training for incoming leaders 6. (8) Ugandan mountain range with snow-capped peaks 7. (8) Rotary’s youngest club format, often in secondary schools 8. (7) The language commonly spoken in central Uganda 9. Name this individual 10. What’s PDG in full?
Fill in the puzzle so that every row across, every column down and, every 9 by 9 box contains the numbers 1 to 9. Sudoku
The Golden Wagon . Issue One 29
Search Puzzle UGANDAN WORD
Find the following mostly Ugandan words hidden in the puzzle:
• Airtel • Bodaboda • Community • Crane • District • Global • Guvnor • Kachumbali • Kampala • Kapchorwa
• Namawojjolo • Namboole
• Nsenene • Omweso • Rolex • Rotaract • Rotary • Rwenzori • Selfie • Service • Vision • Vitz
• Kenzo • Mburo • Mission
I
U L V J
BTYEYEMROKCUJOB
C M H I
OMRNYLAHZBMNJHMI
Z C B S J
AATOWFNPUJ
A J
F R K
C N F I
T R I
O R Q E T F W A J
E O X A
TVWOCNBONKSB I A P Q Z D L Y YHRNUMHQACAOOWKNPAVB SMEMACR FMK SMEDEAPWXT EOMNPHK XAABWXWAMGNWB ROEADAEWWCTERKABHRNS C Z K S R I UJOHASDKKGOEFE D V J FLDUT JUWOZ JWNVDPL M I X G D H N J JMGLOBALWLAF I T A B F I HAOBZHCROLEX I I S Z N I VTSYLANSENENE I O E SVVMRNTTOLKNRPMFSLFN I N A I A T Z B R I GOROTARACT OGBKQBEMT I NTWDEXYXLR N U J LRQWLNVCVCMI W U C A R YHOPRNYUUHQTASERV I C E VAVJOLTGMBUROYHZOFDT
30 The Golden Wagon . Issue One
Meeting calendar
Curating the right environment for the Boy Child to Thrive Panel
Beats, BBQ, and Banter-fun fellowship Rotaract Club of Upper Kololo
31ST OCT
discussion moderated by 03RD OCT Bill Bekunda: Addiction Consultant/Recovery Coach. Buddy Group: GulfStream
The Rotary Foundation: The engine of Rotary Joyce Sadoori TRF Chair D9213 Buddy Group:Chopper
07TH NOV
Charter Celebration - Interact Club of Uganda Martyr Secondary School, Namugongo
05TH 0CT
Buddy Group: Chopper
Family Estate Planning!! Is it worth the energy?
14TH NOV
08TH OCT
Oine Ronald Charter President RCUK Bombardier
RCUK Boardmeeting
Agroforestry as a business: Opportunities and Challenges Dr Bernard Obaa
My TRF journey: Stories of generosity by RCUK members TRF Directorate RCUK
10TH OCT
21ST NOV
CEO Westnile Foresters Buddy Group: Concorde
Buddy group: Boeing
Oil & Gas Industry in Uganda: Sustainable Investment & Promotion of Local Content John B. Habumugisha; Deputy Managing
Movie Fellowship with RCKiwatule
26TH NOV
Acacia Mall Buddy group: Gulfstream
17TH OCT
Director; EACOP Ltd Buddy Group: Airbus
Annual DGs Luncheon Rozadymz Buddy group: Airbus
05TH DEC
The Cocoa Valuechain: Opportunities within the sector and how to plug in. David Kyeyune:
24TH OCT
12TH DEC
Visit to other Friday club
Director Kite Industries Ltd Buddy Group: Bombardier
All Buddy groups
Movie Fellowhip with RC Kiwatule Cineplex Acacia Mall Buddy Group: Concorde
Annual Christmas party and gift exchange Rozadymz Family of Rotary Directorate
19TH DEC
29TH 0CT
28TH NOV RC Kla South Family Get-together
DISTRICT EVENTS
03RD 0CT
Kalisoliso Fundraiser dinner Hotel Africana
D9213 Annual TRF dinner Kabira Country Club
22ND NOV
5th Africa Peace Concert Speke Resort Munyonyo
31ST OCT
D9213 Christmas Carol's with the DG Protea Hotel
16TH DEC
24TH OCT
World Polio day Nsambya Hospital D9213 & D9214
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