Rotary Leader Inspects Site for Africa’s First WASH Institute at Nkumba University

Past District Governor (PDG) Urs Klemm, a Rotarian from Switzerland, inspected the proposed site for the Nkumba University Rotary WASH Institute on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The institute, set to be the first of its kind in Africa and only the second in the world, aims to address critical Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) challenges across the continent.

PDG Klemm commended Nkumba University for the progress made toward establishing the institute, emphasizing its transformative potential. “This institute will benefit not just Nkumba University or Uganda but the entire African continent,” he said. “Let’s push this worldwide.”

The WASH Institute will operate under the School of Science at Nkumba University, providing training, research, and community outreach in WASH. Chancellor Emmanuel Katongole described the initiative as a “game-changer” for Africa. “In a few months, we will see the birth of another milestone that will change Africa in the areas of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene,” Katongole stated.

PDG Klemm was accompanied by Rotarian Urs Herzog and Past President Annie Ninyesiga from the Rotary Club of Bwebajja, alongside key university officials. These included Professor Francis Kasekende, the University Secretary; Martha Luyirika, Deputy University Secretary; Mr. Eddy Kintu, Director of Planning and Infrastructure; Dr. Alex Barakagira, Dean of the School of Sciences; and Amelia Nabukonde, Head of the Department of Sciences.

The collaboration between Rotary and Nkumba University is part of a broader mission to leverage partnerships for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainable development for Uganda and beyond.