The commitment was made on March 28, 2026, during celebrations marking the club’s 25th anniversary.
Rotary is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to humanitarian work, including supporting the underprivileged, promoting public welfare services such as clean water, environmental conservation, combating epidemics, and contributing to community development initiatives.
Rotary International was founded by Paul Percy Harris in Chicago, United States, on February 23, 1905. In Rwanda, it was introduced in 1960 by the Rotary Club Kigali Doyen. The Kigali Virunga chapter was established in 2000 and currently has over 94 members.
Peter Malinga, President of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga, highlighted that over 25 years, the club has implemented numerous projects benefiting the community, including contributions to the Kigali Library, which cost over $6 million, with the club contributing $2 million.
“We have undertaken many projects that demonstrate the impact of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga in society. These initiatives reflect the achievements possible when government institutions and non-governmental organizations collaborate effectively,” he stated.
During the celebrations, members elected Alex Ndibwami as the new club president for the 2026/2027 term.
The club also raised over Rwf53 million to support the purchase of the SPECT Scan machine. Ndibwami emphasized that fundraising efforts will continue through partnerships with private companies, collaboration with other Rotary clubs in Rwanda, and additional grant applications.
He noted, “Within Rotary International, there are structured ways to request support, but it requires demonstrating what you have already accomplished. We will combine our local fundraising with support from other clubs and both private and government entities to complete this project.”
Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, welcomed the initiative, noting that it complements government efforts to provide high-quality healthcare.
“Currently, breast and cervical cancers are on the rise. Introducing a machine like this, which can detect cancer early, is an opportunity for Rwanda, as many patients previously had to travel abroad at high cost to access such services,” he said.
The project to acquire the SPECT Scan machine is expected to be completed by 2028.
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