This is my journey in Rotary—how I joined, why I remain committed, and why I believe I will always be a Rotarian. My introduction to Rotary occurred in 1988 while I was serving as a Grade One Magistrate in Mbarara, thanks to Counsel Tumwesigye (RIP). Later that same year, upon being transferred to Bushenyi, I began attending the Bushenyi Rotary Club.
“Rotary found me as a young magistrate — and it shaped my path of service.”
In 1999, my career led me to Kabale. I continued my involvement by attending the Rotary Club of Kabale meetings, invited by Rotarian Benjamin Kabiito, who would later become a Judge and Chairman of the Judicial Service Commission. I was formally inducted into the Rotary Club of Kabale that same year.
Why I Became and Will Always Be a Rotarian
This is my journey in Rotary—how I joined, why I remain committed, and why I believe I will always be a Rotarian.
My Rotary Journey
My introduction to Rotary occurred in 1988 while I was serving as a Grade One Magistrate in Mbarara, thanks to Counsel Tumwesigye (RIP). Later that same year, upon being transferred to Bushenyi, I began attending the Bushenyi Rotary Club.
In 1999, my career led me to Kabale. I continued my involvement by attending the Rotary Club of Kabale meetings, invited by Rotarian Benjamin Kabiito, who would later become a Judge and Chairman of the Judicial Service Commission. I was formally inducted into the Rotary Club of Kabale that same year.
“My commitment to Rotary is rooted in deeply personal and professional values that continue to guide me long after retirement.”
Why I Am Still a Rotarian
My commitment to Rotary is rooted in several deeply personal and professional values:
The Four-Way Test: This core principle immediately resonated with my professional life as a magistrate and later as a Judge. The Four-Way Test and the Judicial Oath I took guided me in my career, and the Four-Way Test continues to guide me every day after retirement.
Personal Satisfaction: There is great satisfaction in knowing that the little I contribute through the Foundation is part of a collective, worldwide contribution to humanity.
Social Capital: The fellowship I experience—whether at my home club, during a make-up meeting at any other club, at a District Conference, or an International Convention—provides lots of companionship and new friendships.
Opportunity to Travel: Rotary undoubtedly provides chances to visit, tour, and admire different cultures and places. Through Rotary, I have had the privilege of traveling to Britain, Canada, Australia (Sydney), and Singapore. I have also visited Portugal, Germany, Nigeria, and other countries in transit courtesy of Rotary.
Enduring Personal Benefits
My involvement in Rotary has brought surprising and memorable benefits:
Conference Savings (1990 or 1999?): As Rotarians attending a Nairobi District Conference & Assembly, we were able to obtain foreign exchange at the government exchange rate. After balancing my accounts at the end of the conference, I found I had attended for free and had a balance, which I used to purchase a 14-inch black and white TV.
A Timely Favor (Around 1992): While on a business trip to Nairobi, as I walked toward a bank for foreign exchange, a Rotarian (an Indian I did not know personally) noticed my Rotary badge, called me to his office and offered me a much better exchange rate.
A Loan in Copenhagen (Around 2009): After attending a make-up meeting at a rotary club in Copenhagen, one Rotarian lent me his video camera for a week and I took all the videos I needed!
Community Support: I have hosted various personal functions at which Rotarians not only attended but also contributed.
Rotary Journey Timeline
About the Author: Rtn. Asaph is one of the longest serving members of the Club. He is a member of the Kikoni Buddy Group.