Rotarians celebrate Katongole election to global seat

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KAMPALA - Rotary Club of Muyenga (RCM) is celebrating one of their members, past district governor (PDG) Emmanuel Katongole after his election to the Rotary International board of directors.

Katongole's election was during the September 28, 2024, Rotary Conference in Mauritius in recognition of his dedication to community development and global progress, closely aligning with Rotary International’s core mission to promote peace, combat diseases and uplift local economies.

Katongole, a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, a co-founder and the executive chairperson of Quality Chemicals Industries Ltd, is PDG of 9211 (Uganda and Tanzania) between 2013 and 2014.

He joined RCM in 1995, which has since become the biggest in Africa with over 180 members. 

Katongole’s election marked a significant achievement in his career in both business and humanitarian service.

Katongole's election was during the September 28, 2024, Rotary Conference in Mauritius in recognition of his dedication to community development and global progress, closely aligning with Rotary International’s core mission to promote peace, combat diseases and uplift local economies. (Credit: Eddie Ssejjoba)

The Rotary fraternity in Uganda received the news of Katongole’s election with excitement, describing it as a testament to his unwavering commitment to service, both in Uganda and globally.

RCM club president Edward Katimbo Mugwanya said: “Hurrah, the mighty club of Muyenga gets RI Director, what an achievement for our Emma”.

Katimbo stated that Katongole truly deserved the honour and that the club was praying for bigger things to come his way.

PDG Kenneth Wycliffe Mugisha said Katongole’s election was a well-deserved achievement for the RCM, district (9214) and Rotary in Africa.

On the other hand, Steven Mubiru Kalenge, the club's past president (PP), said: “This is amazing. It is well deserved and we pray that it leads to more accolades”. 

Qualified for the position

Club member Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba said: “You have been eminently qualified for this position, this is a great achievement for all of us as RCM, Ugandans and Africans. Thank you for keeping our flag high”.

Vision Group deputy Editor-in-Chief, Felix Osike, who also serves as a member of the Rotary International communications committee, hailed Katongole for his commitment to serving humanity. 

In this file photo, past District Governor (PDG) Emmanuel Katongole (L) chats with the Rotary District 9214 governor, Agnes Mungati Batengas during her visit to the Rotary Club of Muyenga Tankhill, on August 30, 2024. (Credit: Eddie Ssejjoba)

“Africa is the new growth center for Rotary, having such a selfless and upbeat leader at the helm of decision-making is a step in the right direction. He is full of positive energy,” Osike said.  

Katongole is commended for his leadership and business acumen, which have been pivotal in transforming the company from a pharmaceutical distributor focused on animal health into one of Africa’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Through his visionary guidance, QCIL has played a key role in addressing critical health needs across the continent, particularly in providing access to affordable medicines.

As Rotary International director, Katongole will steer Zone 22, which includes 14 rotary districts accounting for over 2,500 rotary clubs across southern Africa and the Indian Ocean islands.

Katongole is also expected to inspire Rotarians worldwide, dedicate to making a lasting, positive impact on communities across the globe.

Katongole's acumen

Katongole holds a master's of arts in economic policy and planning, and a bachelor’s degree in Statistics from Makerere University, which has provided a strong foundation for his strategic approach to business and economic development.

Beyond his business success, he has made a significant impact on the global stage. He is a member of the Initiative for Global Development’s Frontier 100, a network of influential business leaders from emerging markets.

His leadership has extended to several other sectors, including his role as the first chairperson of the Uganda National Oil Company, former chairperson of Mauritius Union Assurance (U) Ltd, and former Board Member of Absa Bank (U) Ltd. Katongole currently chairs the Advisory Board of TLG Capital Ltd, a London-based private investment firm, where he continues to influence key markets globally.

In addition to his business leadership, Katongole has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service. In April 2020, he was appointed by President Yoweri Museveni to chair the National Response Fund on COVID-19, leading the country’s efforts to manage the pandemic.

His contributions to education and faith-based service are equally impressive. In 2021, he was appointed Chancellor of Nkumba University, and later that year, he was honoured by Pope Francis as a Papal Knight, further recognizing his extensive contributions to the community.

In this file photo, past District Governor (PDG) Emmanuel Katongole (L) chats with the Rotary District 9214 governor, Agnes Mungati Batengas during her visit to the Rotary Club of Muyenga Tankhill, on August 30, 2024. (Credit: Eddie Ssejjoba)

Katongole’s Rotary journey has been equally remarkable. Starting at the club level with the Rotary Club of Muyenga, he held several key roles, including Club President, before moving to the district level where he served as Uganda Country Chair and assistant Governor.

His leadership as the inaugural District Governor of Rotary District 9211 (Uganda and Tanzania) in 2013-14 was a defining moment, as he drove growth and service initiatives across the region.

At the international level, Katongole has taken on significant roles within Rotary, including serving as chairman of the Peace Major Gifts Initiative committee.

He is also a passionate supporter of the Rotary Foundation, being a member of the esteemed Arch Klumph Society, the Bequest Society, and the Paul Harris Society.

His dedication to Rotary’s mission is evident in his regular participation in over 20 Rotary International Conventions and 24 district conferences.

Katongole is also credited for starting the Mengo Hospital-based Rotary Blood Bank and was credited for his role in starting Makerere University Rotary Peace Center.

Katongole’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have also earned him prestigious accolades. In 2013, he was named the East African Winner at the Ernst and Young World Entrepreneur of the Year Awards, where he was inducted into the World Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame.

He is also a recipient of the Africa Business Leadership Award and the Africa Entrepreneurship Award.

 His leadership comes at a time when Rotary International is enhancing its efforts to promote humanitarian service, economic growth, and global peace.