The lively and heartwarming installation ceremony took place at the Mythos Boutique Hotel in Kigali, drawing an audience of Rotarians from across Rwanda, friends, and distinguished guestsâ€"including Antoine Anfré, Ambassador of France to Rwanda, who honored the gathering as Guest of Honor.
The evening was a beautiful showcase of Rotary's spirit of service and solidarity, bringing together people of action, united in friendship and committed to transforming communities.
Reflecting on a year of 'Rotary Magic'
Outgoing president Rtn. PHF Freddy Mutanguha took the stage to reflect on a vibrant year of service under the 2024/2025 Rotary theme, 'The Magic of Rotary.' He highlighted key milestones that defined his presidencyâ€"from impactful community initiatives to celebratory moments that strengthened club unity.
'Our club witnessed the true magic of Rotaryâ€"reaching those who needed us most,' he said. 'We stood by people living with albinism, children with autism, women in correctional facilities, and families in need of clean water.'
Among the notable achievements, the club has made significant strides in several key areas. In partnership with the Organization for the Integration and Promotion of People with Albinism in Rwanda (OIPPA), the club provided essential support to individuals with albinism.
This included distributing skin-protective lotions, sun-safe eyewear, and facilitating access to cancer screenings.
Additionally, the club made a meaningful impact at the Nyamagabe correctional facility, where 12 sewing machines were donated to women learning vocational skills.
'These machines are not just tools; they are a pathway to reintegration, dignity, and renewed purpose,' Mutanguha shared.
The club also collaborated with Autism Rwanda to raise awareness and provide support for children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Through advocacy, funding education, and fostering inclusion, the club has played a crucial role in promoting the well-being of individuals with autism.
Another significant project was the partnership with Rotary Club Vitré (France), which facilitated access to clean and safe water for communities in Rwinyoni, located in Rutsiro District, Western Rwanda.
Rtn. Mutanguha also led the club in celebrating its 25th anniversaryâ€"a milestone marked by pride, reflection, and recommitment to the Rotary motto: Service Above Self.
A new dawn: 'Unite for Good'
Stepping into leadership for the 2025/2026 Rotary year, Rtn. Claver Irakoze energized the audience with a forward-looking vision grounded in compassion and collaboration. Under the global Rotary theme 'Unite for Good,' he emphasized the importance of unity, innovation, and impactful service.
'I stand here deeply honored and ready to lead with a heart for service and a mind for solutions,' he said. 'We will grow our membership, strengthen our club's dynamism, and launch flagship projects that uplift vulnerable communitiesâ€"not just in words, but with measurable, lasting impact.'
He pledged to champion cross-club collaborations, engage youth, and position RC Kigali Mont Jali as a model of purpose-driven action. 'When we unite for good, we amplify our impact. Rotary is not just about givingâ€"it's about connecting, empowering, and transforming,' Claver affirmed.
A voice of diplomacy and encouragement
In his address, French Ambassador Antoine Anfré shared heartfelt remarks that connected Rotary's mission to the universal values of empathy and civic responsibility.
'Rotary does what diplomacy often dreams ofâ€"changing lives through daily acts of compassion,' he said. 'What you do matters deeply. By providing clean water, supporting children with special needs, or empowering women to stitch a new chapter for their future, you remind us that service knows no borders and no small actions.'
Celebrating growth and generosity
The installation night was also marked by two major Rotary milestones: growth in membership and giving.
Three new members were officially inducted into Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali, joining a global network of over 1.4 million Rotarians. Their induction (intronisation) was met with cheers, pins, and a heartfelt welcome.
Additionally, four members were recognized as Paul Harris Fellows (PHF)â€"a distinction given to Rotarians who contribute $1,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation.
These contributions help fund high-impact projects across the globe, including in Rwanda. Each PHF was honored with the iconic PHF pin, symbolizing not just generosity, but a shared commitment to building a better world.
'When you wear that pin,' said one club leader, 'you're telling the world: I believe in change that lasts.'
A night to remember
More than a formal ceremony, the installation night was a joyful celebration of purpose. Laughter, conversation, music, and a shared meal created an atmosphere of deep connectionâ€"a reminder that Rotary is not just an organization; it's a family.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a renewed sense of energy in the room. Under Rtn. Claver Irakoze's leadership, and with the theme 'Unite for Good' as a compass, Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali is set to embrace another year of service, action, and impact.
IGIHE
