Rotary Club Kigali–Virunga, on Saturday, celebrated its 10th anniversary with several Rotarians receiving awards in recognition of their contribution towards the club’s success.

Addressing the guests, the president of the club, Rose Gahire said that the birth of the club in 1999 fits in very well with the history of the Rotary fraternity in Rwanda.

"In 1999, Rotarian Mary Barikungeri and Rotarian Peter of Salvation Army continued to meet English speaking individuals around Kigali sensitizing them on the values and norms of rotary family,” Gahire said.

She advised Rotarians to inspire the development of young leaders by supporting Rotaract and Interact clubs through involving them in club activities and providing them with leadership and professional development opportunities.

"Club members participated in the campaign for tree planting in Gahanga, Kicukiro District along Nyabarongo River. Several students have been beneficiaries of school fees paid by the club and we have also taken care of sick people,” she added.

She added that so far, Rotaract clubs have been introduced to various higher institutions of learning.

"The Club has initiated and seen the birth and the growth of Rotaract Clubs of Kigali Institute of Technology (KIST) chartered in 2001, Kigali Institute of Education (KIE) chartered in 2002 and the most recent, the Rotaract Club of  School of Finance and Banking (SFB) this year,” she said.

The club enjoys the company of several key personalities in the country, including First Lady, Jeannette Kagame who is an honorary member.

The First Lady, who was represented at the event by Kigali City Mayor Aisa Kirabo, was also awarded a certificate of recognition by the club for her outstanding support to the rotary community.

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