Rotarians honour Mbuya priest

The Rotary Club of Kampala Metropolitan has awarded Fr. Paulino Mondo, a Priest at Our Lady of Africa Church Mbuya with a vocational for his efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The priest was honoured during the club's fellowship at Mackinon Suites in Kampala recently.

A vocational award is given to any non-Rotarian member of the community using their professions to help the disadvantaged members of society and make their lives better.

According to Ivan Kakooza, the club's public relations director, Fr. Mondo was recognised for his efforts in the helping of the disadvantaged members of the society to make their lives better.

"Fr. Mondo has gone out of the way to ensure that he is helping people in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This is not in any way connected to the priesthood," Kakooza said.

Mondo explained that he first came to the club in November last year soliciting funds towards assisting orphans who are in school.

Reach Out HIV Initiative Mbuya

The initiative that began in 2001, according to Mondo, is currently looking after over 1,500 children who have been affected and infected by HIV/AIDS with school needs from preschool to university.

"The initiative has taken it upon itself to ensure that it raises money and ensure that these capable Ugandans and other refugees are getting education because we have realised that one cause of spreading HIV/AIDS is when there is no standard economy living," he said.

"When people have no jobs, they may end up on the streets doing things that will end up further spreading HIV/AIDS because famine, hunger and poverty don't have limits," he added.

He further explained that the initiative has since opened up to 14 outreaches across the country running on a budget of over sh7b annually, and appealed for more support towards the cause.

This is the second time the club is honouring different people with the vocational awards since its inception in 2017.

Last year, the club honoured singer, Edrisa Musuuza popularly known as Eddy Kenzo for his efforts towards supporting the children dance group of the Ghetto Kids from being street children to an internationally celebrated dance group.