A Testament to Remarkable Progress
President Gordon McInally, alongside his esteemed spouse Heather, embarked on the Africa Hope Tour, a journey of inspiration and collaboration, touching down in Rwanda from March 21st to March 23rd, 2024. This visit, marking President McInally’s first official trip to Rwanda, was a significant milestone, reaffirming Rotary International’s commitment to Rwanda’s development journey and underscoring the progress witnessed since his last visit.
President McInally’s itinerary, as outlined in the proposed program, was meticulously planned to engage with various Rotary projects and initiatives across Rwanda to foster connections with local Rotarians and community leaders.
Upon their arrival at Kigali International Airport on Thursday, March 21st, President McInally and Heather were warmly received by Rotarians and Assistant District Governors (ADGs), setting the tone for their impactful visit. The day commenced with a poignant visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where President McInally paid homage to Rwanda’s past and its journey of resilience. Subsequently, he toured the Kigali Public Library Rotary Project, accompanied by Rotarians and Rotaractors involved in this transformative initiative led by PADG Masterjerb. At KPL the RI President was received by RCKV President Livingstone, and the Rotary Rwanda fraternity. The day culminated in a gala dinner event at the Kigali Convention Centre, a stunning 5-star venue, jointly hosted by Rotary Club District 9150 .
During the gala dinner, which was attended by distinguished guests from various countries including Gabon, Chad, Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, and Mauritius, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie. Our very own Rtn Charlie Haba and Rotarian Iris Irumva from Rotary of Club Kigali Doyen served as the Master of Ceremonies, infusing the event with their charisma and expertise, ensuring an unforgettable evening of fellowship and celebration.
Guests were treated to mesmerising performances of traditional Rwandan dance, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the event. The theme for the evening was traditional attire, and guests arrived dressed to impress, with President McInally himself charmingly clad in his Scottish kilt, adding to the elegance and grandeur of the occasion.
Two clubs were chartered during the gala dinner, namely the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan and the Rotary Club of Kigali Golf, the latter being the child club of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga. The Rotary Club of Kigali Golf had Charter President Rtn Apollo M. Nkunda at its helm, symbolizing a new chapter in Rotary’s journey of service and fellowship in Rwanda. The Cosmopolitan Club was formed by Kigali Seniors which was also birthed by Kigali Virunga and now Kigali Golf. Kigali Seniors is now officially the first Rotary Rwanda grandpa.
Day 2 started extra early with a drive to Bugesera to visit the Peace Centre. The tour was led by PADG Jeanette and her team. The RI President paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana and discussed major milestones in Rwanda’s health sector as well as future areas of partnership in line with the shifting demographic needs of the country. The day was culminated by the President opening RYLA with the Minister of Youth and Arts Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima. He took the youth through the leadership journey and encouraged them to be responsible citizens of the world.
ALSO READ: Rotary International president visits Rwanda
As President McInally’s visit drew to a close, leisure activities were planned, providing him and Heather with an opportunity to explore Rwanda further and engage in yet-to-be-finalized engagements. The visit concluded with a heartfelt send-off at the airport, facilitated by Assistant District Governors and other organizers, symbolizing the end of a memorable journey of collaboration and friendship.
Special thanks go to all RCKV members for turning up in large numbers as we experienced a successful visit by our RI leader. Additionally, gratitude is extended to Rwanda Events for donating the stage and sound for the gala dinner, enhancing the evening’s splendor.
Notably, 17 Paul Harris Fellows (PHF) from our club were pinned by the RI President on the night of the gala, with the latest being Rtn PHF Rahman Adam who donated on the night. The evening recognized their outstanding contributions to Rotary’s humanitarian mission. Below is a list of the 2023-24 Rotary Kigali Virunga PHFs who were honored on the night:
1. Rtn Catechist Balaswamy Chourappa (Balu) PHF +2
2. Rtn Alex Ndibwami
3. Rtn John Bugunya
4. Rtn Oji Chukwuemeka Donoji
5. Rtn Apollo Nkunda
6. Rtn Odeth Bateta
7. Rtn Peter Malinga
8. Rtn Allen Kendunga
9. Rtn Jean Bosco Safari
10. Rtn Andre Kulayige
11. Rtn JB Rutayisire
12. Rtn Daniella Odette Mukayiranga
13. Rtn Cedric Abuna
14. Rtn Eudes Kayumba
15. Rtn Arthur Asiimwe
16. Rtn Crystal Rugege
17. Honorary Rtn. Clare Akamanzi
ALSO READ: Origins of The Rotary Paul Harris Fellow
President Gordon McInally’s ‘Hope Tour Rwanda’ left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of Rwandans, inspiring hope, collaboration, and renewed commitment to Rotary’s humanitarian mission. As Rwanda continues its journey of progress and resilience, Rotary International remains steadfast in its support, ready to partner with the Rwandan people in building a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
