KIGALI – A new generation of youth leaders has been called upon to embrace integrity, service and community transformation following the installation of five Rotaract club presidents under the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan.
The ceremony brought together Rotaractors from Service Leaders at African Leadership University, Kigali Beacon at Mount Kigali University, the Rotaract Club of the University of Rwanda School of Dentistry, Akili Club for former Akilah Institute students and East African University Rotaract Club.
Despite being only two years old, the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan has already carried out six global grant projects valued at more than $30,000 while supporting youth-led initiatives in health, education and community development.
Speaking during the event, guest of honor Rotarian Damien Mouzoun, a senior leadership advisor said Rotary’s global influence has endured for more than a century because of its values and commitment to service above self.
“Rotary continues to unite people across the world not because of money or status, but because of values. What keeps this organization strong is integrity, education, service and the willingness to help people even when you expect nothing in return,” Mouzoun said.
Mouzoun, reflected on his personal journey through Rotary and encouraged young Rotaractors to use the organization as a platform for mentorship and ethical leadership.
“Wherever Rotarians go, they should become a light in the community. People trust Rotary because they associate it with honesty, compassion and responsibility. That reputation is our greatest strength,” he said.
He also urged members to reject misconceptions surrounding Rotary and focus instead on the impact of their work in society.
Among the installed leaders was Moise Ndoli Mukire, the new president of the Rotaract Club of UR School of Dentistry, who highlighted the club’s growing impact through oral health outreach programs conducted in schools and communities.
“In the past two years, we have reached nearly 3,000 people through screening and treatment outreach activities, especially young people and vulnerable members of the community,” Mukire said.
“Being a Rotaractor means giving service without expecting anything back. It is about giving back to society because someone once helped you,” he added.
The dentistry club regularly organizes oral health campaigns in public schools every six months with support from the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan.
Meanwhile, Ian Christian Mwaniki, the newly installed president of the Service Leaders Rotaract Club at African Leadership University, challenged fellow young people to respond boldly to the social and economic challenges facing communities today.
“We are not here simply to wear pins or organize events. We are here to lead change, inspire hope and become the generation that refuses to look away when communities are struggling,” Ian said.
He pledged to lead with “integrity, transparency, humility and teamwork” while calling on members to build projects that create lasting impact.
“History is waiting to see whether this generation will answer the call to serve. Our answer must be to rise, serve and lead,” he added.
