Two Kalanagala rural change makers recognised

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As one of the concluding activities of the Rotary Vocational Service Month, the Rotary Club of Kampala Ssese Islands has honoured two youthful entrepreneurial innovators.

According to Rotarian Helen Nanteza Kawesa, Disan Bisula and Simon Tumusingize, both based in Ssese Islands, Kalangala district, were selected for the vocational service award of the Rotary Club of Kampala Ssese on account of their contribution to the area’s socio-economic transformation.

“Disan has demonstrated unique ability to balance technological innovation and agricultural sustainability. Beyond his professional success, he is a change-maker. He established an investment club that has grown to shillings 72 million in assets, showcasing his commitment to community development. Through his Island Tech Hub, he has brought ICT training and cyber awareness to the under-served Ssese Islands, empowering youth with digital skills for the future. He is a visionary leader who has empowered youth through ICT training, championed environmental sustainability, and transformed agriculture. He has also fostered community investment, demonstrating his commitment to both technological and economic development,” Kawesa said.

The picture and remarks of gratitude on Bisula's accolade. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

She also spoke highly of Simon Tugumisirize.

“Simon is the founder and managing director of Ecoverse Innovations, a social enterprise doing eco-friendly innovations. He is a clean energy innovator producing energy-saving stoves and biomass briquettes from coffee husks, clay, cassava porridge and other waste materials. He has over 40 eco-friendly innovations. Through Ecoverse, Simon has transformed communities through job creation, skilling and economic empowerment. He has trained over 50 youths in the bio-gas construction business and these have gone out to train others in the community and gain an income. He has transformed the lives of 50 women and youth through direct employment and skilling. Ecoverse produces 10 tonnes of stick briquettes daily, and 20,000 pieces of honeycombs per week. He also creates products in banana fibre,” Kawesa further explained.

The picture and remarks of gratitude on Tumusingize's accolade. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

The two awardees were given their accolades during the vocational service celebration of the Rotary Club of Kampala Ssese Islands at Kati Kati Restaurant, Lugogo on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Uganda Communications Commission corporate affairs director Fred Otunnu (who was the guest speaker) stressed the need for Ugandans to invest in digital skills as a strategy for unlocking the potential of young people and communities, especially in rural areas. He also highlighted the importance of vocational skills, which he said should be valued alongside academic achievements.

The Director of Corporate Affairs at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Fred Otunnu delivers his speech during the vocations celebration of the Rotary Club of Kampala Ssese Islands at Kati Kati Restaurant, Lugogo (in Nakawa Division) on Thursday, January 30, 2025. (Photo by Mathias Mazinga)

“Vocational skills are essential in today’s digital economy, empowering individuals and generating job opportunities. They provide people with the practical expertise needed to tackle community challenges. To foster innovation and economic development in Uganda, we must continue to support and invest in vocational skills, nurturing talents for the benefit of our communities.”

Otunnu paid glowing tribute to the two recipients for empowering fellow young people and conserving the environment.

Earlier during the function, Past District Governor Mike Sebalu urged Rotarians to value vocations. He said it is vocations which help the Rotarians to deliver on their mandate.

The importance of celebrating vocations was also highlighted by the reigning President of the Rotary Club of Kampala Ssese Islands, Moses John Ssebugwawo.