UgandaToday: Rotary International & CBS Host Spectacular Kaliisoliiso 2025 Gala at Hotel Africana
Byine: Uganda Today
Kampala, May 5, 2025 — In a dazzling evening of fellowship, fundraising, and vision, Rotary International together with CBS hosted the 2025 Kaliisoliiso Dinner at Hotel Africana on Friday, May 5. The elegant event presided over by the Katikkiro of Buganda drew Rotarians, corporate sponsors, government officials, cultural dignitaries, and media personalities, all united behind the cause of service above self.
A Night to Remember
As dusk fell over Kampala, Hotel Africana’s grand Nile Conference Hall was transformed into a vibrant hub of illumination and conversation. Guests in formal and party attire mingled over before being ushered to their seats under soft lighting and floral décor.
The theme of the evening—“Kaliisoliiso: Lighting the Path to Community Transformation”—captured the spirit of Rotary’s mission and the ambition of its local projects.
Rotary District leadership opened the evening with a welcome address, highlighting the purpose of the dinner: to raise funds for ongoing community projects, endorse new initiatives for 2025–26, and strengthen partnerships between Rotary, CBS, and the broader civic sector. Thyey announced a grand contribution of UGX 520,000,000 and equivalency of $300,000.
Beatrice Lugalambi, General Manager Corporate Communication and Marketing, Centenary Bank while representing her Managing Director Fabian Kasi, announced UGX 280,000,000 towards the cause. In the same measure, MTN Uganda announced a collaboration of their sister company of mobile money where they have set up a mobile money code for all well-wishers to contribute funds towards completion of Nkozi hospital ward to cater for Kampala -Masaka higthway accident victims. In the three years within which this project shall run, MTN is expected to have raised UGX 2,000,000,000.
Highlights & Special Guests
A number of distinguished personalities graced the evening, including:
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Rotary International District Governor (2024/25)
- BBS Terefayina who are co-sponsors
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CBS FM executives
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High-level government representatives
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Traditional and cultural leaders
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Major sponsors and benefactors
Speeches touched on themes of public health, education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. One recurring message was the imperative of sustainable, homegrown initiatives—ensuring that donated funds catalyze long-term local impact rather than temporary fixes.
The cultural programme was a showstopper. Afrigo Band dance troupe spiced the occasion with live music, and performances from a combined quartet of two female singers and 2 groups of Uganda’s comedian rising stars added sparkle to the evening, punctuated by moments of laughter, applause, and heartfelt reflections.
In a moving segment, major sponsors were honored with endearing gratitude celebrating partnership—amid much appreciation. The energy in the room was high when celebrities and guests joined impromptu dancing, guided by masterful emcees.
Fundraising & Impact
Central to the dinner’s purpose was fundraising. Proceeds will support Nkozi Hospital Accident Ward project
While the final tally is being computed, organizers expressed optimism that this year’s dinner will surpass past benchmarks, thanks to generous pledges from corporate partners and individuals.
Other anchor sponsor reportedly pledged multi‑million shilling contribution, while many others committed ongoing support for Rotary’s year ahead. These funds, the organizers reiterated, would be channelled transparently and in alignment with community priorities.
Reflections & Future Steps
In closing remarks, the Katikkiro of Buganda called on all attendees to become “ambassadors of service.” The challenge was laid: each guest should carry forward Kaliisoliiso’s message in their communities, catalyzing small acts that contribute to lasting change.
CBS representatives reiterated their commitment to continuing media collaboration — not just for visibility, but in cultivating informed citizenry, highlighting local success stories, and maintaining accountability for funded projects.
With the 2025–26 Rotary year gearing up, the evening served both as celebration and launch‑pad. Organising committee that was led by the second deputy Katikkiro Oweekitibwa Wagwa Nsibirwa was thanked for the splendid work done.
As guests departed late into the evening, there was a palpable sense of momentum. The Kaliisoliiso 2025 Dinner was more than a gala — it was a clarion call for unity, action, and hope for communities across Uganda.
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