Dr. Mukiza links data and humanitarian impact at 2025 Rotary Foundation Gala
Dr. Mukiza lauded Rotary International’s impressive track record, which includes over USD 4 Billion invested globally in sustainable solutions and the near-eradication of polio, with a 99.9% reduction in global cases.
Philanthropy driven by data and accountability was the central message delivered by Dr. Chris N. Mukiza, Executive Director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), as he addressed the 2025 Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner on Saturday at Speke Resort.
Dr. Mukiza, serving as the Chief Guest, joined members of Rotary District 9214 (Uganda and Tanzania) to honor outstanding contributors to The Rotary Foundation, reinforcing the organization’s shared commitment to “Doing Good in the World, one impactful act at a time.”
Aligning Data and Compassion
In his keynote address, Dr. Mukiza highlighted the powerful synergy between UBOS’ mandate and Rotary’s mission, emphasizing that both institutions rely on rigorous methodologies to achieve lasting change.
“High-quality statistics are central to planning and policy,” Dr. Mukiza stated. “From tracking poverty and health outcomes to understanding population dynamics, UBOS data helps guide interventions that directly improve lives, just as effective Rotary projects are built on assessment and measurable results.”
He argued for the “economics of generosity,” noting that true societal value emerges when financial resources, accurate statistics, and human compassion intersect. This informed action, he stressed, is the engine of sustainable transformation.
Celebrating Global and Local Impact
Dr. Mukiza lauded Rotary International’s impressive track record, which includes over USD 4 Billion invested globally in sustainable solutions and the near-eradication of polio, with a 99.9% reduction in global cases.
He specifically recognized the contributions of District 9214, whose efforts in education, health, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and peacebuilding have brought measurable improvements across Uganda and Tanzania.
The Chief Guest urged Rotarians to sustain the culture of giving, emphasizing the long-term value of investing in The Rotary Foundation.
“Philanthropy is not defined by the size of the gift, but by the size of the heart behind it,” Dr. Mukiza remarked. He clarified that the evening served not to rank contributions, but to recognize the shared compassion and commitment to a better future.
He echoed the sentiments of Rotary International Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole, reminding attendees that current giving is a critical investment in future generations and the long arc of development.
New Fund Launched for Education and Literacy
The evening culminated in a major announcement requested by the District Governor. Dr. Mukiza announced the creation of the Joseph Ndatira Fund for Education and Literacy, cementing the critical role of learning in development.
Reaffirming education as the most powerful tool for overcoming human challenges, Dr. Mukiza concluded with a poignant reminder: “We are all here because we went to school.”
He encouraged Rotarians to continue uniting for good, ensuring every action, big or small, strengthens communities and moves the world closer to its development goals.
Rotary District 9214 covers all Rotary Clubs in Uganda and Tanzania, committed to service through various humanitarian projects focusing on peace, education, health, and economic development.
Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) is the principal statistical agency of the Government of Uganda, responsible for setting standards, collecting, analyzing, and disseminating official statistics.
