KAMPALA, UGANDA | The Rotary community in Uganda has reaffirmed its dedication to the global fight against polio during the commemoration of World Polio Day. Rotarians and Rotaractors from Districts 9213 and 9214 gathered to express their commitment to Rotary International’s mission of eradicating polio through the PolioPlus Initiative, which was launched in 1985.
Collaborating with organizations such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the PolioPlus Initiative has successfully reduced polio cases by over 99%. This partnership has immunized more than 2.5 billion children across 122 countries, preventing over 18 million cases of paralysis.
Anne Nkutu, the Governor of Rotary District 9213, emphasized that Rotary was a pioneer in the global fight against polio, a battle that continues today. She encouraged Rotarians to be vigorous advocates in this cause, noting that polio remains a significant threat.
"In many of our clubs, there is a sense of complacency regarding polio, perhaps because we haven't witnessed its impact firsthand," Nkutu said. “However, we must remember the fear surrounding COVID-19—an experience some communities associate with polio. If we can empathize with that fear, we can understand their situation."
Nkutu further stressed that just as communities rallied to combat COVID-19, the Rotary family has a duty to protect children from polio. “It is our primary responsibility to ensure we eradicate polio. Rotary International’s investment of over $2 billion and countless volunteer hours has brought us close to achieving a polio-free world—a testament to collective action and commitment,” she added.
In Uganda, Rotary clubs play a vital role in the national Polio Eradication Initiative. The organization conducts immunization campaigns, raises public awareness, and secures funding to support these efforts. Volunteers are active in communities, ensuring vaccines reach even the most remote children.
Innovative outreach programs are designed to educate the public and dispel misinformation, encouraging participation in the eradication campaign. Each Rotary member contributes at least USD 25 (UGX 93,000) annually to the Rotary Foundation’s polio fund.
“On this World Polio Day, Rotary Uganda calls on governments, communities, and individuals to join us in this historic fight. Together, we can create a future where no child lives in fear of polio paralysis,” stated Daniel Ddamulira, Rotary District 9214 Governor Nominee.
Despite significant progress, challenges persist, including political instability, remote locations, and misinformation that hinder eradication efforts. This renewed commitment comes in the wake of recent discoveries of the polio virus in Uganda, underscoring the urgent need for continued vigilance and action.
