Naphtal Baguma: The new hand at the helm of Uganda Red Cross
Dr. Halid Kirunda, Chairman of the Central Governing Board of the Uganda Red Cross Society, congratulated Baguma on his appointment and wished him success as he takes on the leadership of the organisation.
The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has appointed Naphtal Baguma as its new Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Robert Kwesiga.
Baguma will officially assume office on March 1, 2027, following his appointment by the Central Governing Board after a selection process aimed at identifying a leader with the experience and capacity to steer the humanitarian organisation into its next phase of growth and transformation.
He brings more than 20 years of professional experience across the humanitarian, public and private sectors, including more than a decade in senior leadership positions within the Uganda Red Cross Society.
Before his appointment, Baguma served as Director of Supply Chain and Estates Management, where he provided executive oversight of procurement, logistics, fleet, warehousing, estates and asset management.
Through his roles at URCS, Baguma has worked closely with Government, Parliament, donors and Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners, gaining experience in strategic planning, resource mobilisation, partnership development, governance and institutional decision-making.
Academic and Leadership Experience
Baguma holds a PhD in Governance and Finance from Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, as well as a Master of Business Administration in Management and a Bachelor of Science in Procurement and Supply Chain Management.
He also holds professional qualifications including MCIPS and Certified Procurement Professional (CPP).
His executive leadership training includes programmes at Harvard Business School and Strathmore University, including the Management and Leadership Programme and the CEO Apprenticeship Programme respectively.
Before joining the Uganda Red Cross Society, Baguma held senior positions with the USAID-Mildmay Uganda Programme, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and Nation Media Group, among other institutions.
The Board said his experience has equipped him with expertise in institutional systems, donor compliance, project management, public-sector governance, financial stewardship and strategic partnerships.
Focus on Sustainability and Humanitarian Impact
As Secretary General, Baguma will be responsible for providing strategic leadership to URCS, with a focus on strengthening governance and organisational effectiveness, improving financial sustainability and deepening partnerships.
He will also be expected to empower the Society’s branches and volunteers while ensuring that its programmes deliver measurable humanitarian impact to vulnerable communities across Uganda.
The Central Governing Board expressed confidence that Baguma’s institutional knowledge and leadership experience will help strengthen the Society’s systems, partnerships and humanitarian work.
The Board also commended outgoing Secretary General Robert Kwesiga for his service and contribution to the growth and transformation of URCS during his tenure.
It particularly recognised Kwesiga’s leadership during what it described as turbulent times and his role in supporting a smooth transition.
The Board has called on URCS members, staff, volunteers, partners and other stakeholders to support Baguma as he prepares to take over leadership.
The transition will be conducted through a structured handover and onboarding process intended to ensure continuity of the Society’s programmes and operations.
Dr. Halid Kirunda, Chairman of the Central Governing Board of the Uganda Red Cross Society, congratulated Baguma on his appointment and wished him success as he takes on the leadership of the organisation.
