ROTARY CLUB OF THIKA

SERVICE ABOVE SELF

LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS

Club Assembly 20th September 2024

🏛️ What Is a Rotary Club Assembly?

A Cornerstone of Club Governance

The Rotary Club Assembly is a key event in the life of every Rotary Club. It is a formal gathering of all club members, designed to foster transparency, collaboration, and shared decision-making. For the Rotary Club of Thika, the assembly is not just a meeting—it is a vital governance tool that ensures the club remains member-driven and aligned with Rotary International’s values.

📋 Purpose of the Club Assembly

According to Rotary International guidelines, the Club Assembly provides a structured forum where members can:

Review club goals and budgets
Discuss service projects and community initiatives
Evaluate leadership and succession planning
Raise concerns and propose new ideas

This open dialogue empowers members to shape the club’s direction and priorities.

🗣️ Giving Members a Voice

One of the most important aspects of the Club Assembly is that it gives every member a voice. Committee chairs and officers present updates, and members are encouraged to ask questions, offer feedback, and vote on key decisions. This inclusive approach strengthens the club’s unity and effectiveness.

🔍 Strategic Planning in Action

Club Assemblies are typically held at regular intervals throughout the Rotary year. They focus on internal matters such as:

Membership growth
Public image strategies
Fundraising plans
Community service impact

By engaging in strategic planning together, members ensure that the club’s activities reflect shared values and goals.

✅ Why It Matters

The Rotary Club Assembly is essential for:

Good governance
Accountability
Member engagement
Long-term success

It is a space where ideas are exchanged, achievements are celebrated, and the future is shaped—collectively.

📢 Join the Conversation

Whether you're a long-time Rotarian or a new member, your participation in the Club Assembly helps build a stronger, more responsive Rotary Club of Thika. Together, we lead with purpose and serve with impact.

View Installation Album

Rotary Club of Thika Installs President Elizabeth Gitau and New Board

Last Saturday, the Rotary Club of Thika celebrated a new chapter with the installation of its 2025-2026 President, Elizabeth Gitau, and her dedicated board of directors. The colorful ceremony took place at the Fountain Brook Hotel in Thika town, marking a day of fellowship, celebration, and commitment to service.

The event began by honoring the remarkable achievements of the outgoing president, Charity Maina, and her board. President Charity gave a detailed presentation on the impactful projects accomplished during the Centennial Rotary in Africa year. Her leadership culminated in the club receiving two prestigious awards at the District Conference held in Mombasa.

The official handover ceremony was presided over by Past District Governor Peter Mbui, assisted by Assistant Governor Michael Monari. Incoming President Elizabeth Gitau was welcomed with vibrant song and dance before taking her oath of office. She then introduced her new board of directors, who were also officially installed.

In her inaugural address, President Gitau pledged to build upon the club's legacy of great work. She passionately encouraged members to embrace the new Rotary motto, "Unite for Good," emphasizing that by working together, Rotarians can amplify their positive impact and serve the community more effectively.

The celebration was graced by the presence of a representative for His Excellency Governor Kimani Wamatangi of Kiambu County, Mr. John Maingi, the acting County Secretary and head of Public Service. Reading an official speech from the governor, Mr. Maingi praised the work of Rotary in the county and pledged continued partnership with the Rotary Club of Thika and other local clubs.

The day's festivities were punctuated with lively song, dance, raffles, and auctions, concluding with a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony. The Rotary Club of Thika looks forward to an inspiring and impactful year under President Gitau’s leadership, as we Unite for Good to serve our community.

WATOTO WENYE NGUVU PROJECT HANDOVER

A Historic Milestone: Interact Club of Thika High School for the Blind Officially Chartered

On Thursday, 10th July, the Rotary Club of Thika proudly marked a significant milestone with the official chartering of the Interact Club of Thika High School for the Blind. This memorable occasion took place during the 2024–2025 Rotary year and was a celebration of youth empowerment, inclusion, and service above self.

The charter ceremony was graced by distinguished Rotarians, including Immediate Past President Charity Maina, Club President 2025–2026 Elizabeth Gitau, and Past Assistant Governor Dr. Steve Mugucia, who led the official proceedings. Their presence underscored the importance of nurturing leadership and service values among young people, especially those in special education institutions.

Located in Thika, Kiambu County, Thika High School for the Blind is a trailblazing institution with a long-standing commitment to providing quality education to learners with visual impairments. For decades, the school has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of inclusive education in Kenya.

The Rotary Club of Thika has enjoyed a longstanding partnership with the school, supporting various initiatives and projects over the years. Notably, the club has facilitated the participation of students from the school in the annual Rotary Sunshine Rally—a joyful and inclusive event that brings together children living with disabilities for a day of fun, friendship, and celebration.

The chartering of the Interact Club marks a new chapter in this partnership, empowering students to take an active role in community service and leadership development. It is a testament to Rotary’s commitment to creating opportunities for all young people to thrive and make a difference.

WELCOME TO THE NEW ROTARY YEAR !

As we step into a new Rotary year beginning 1st July, we embrace the 2025–2026 Rotary International theme: "Unite for Good." This powerful call reminds us of the strength we hold when we come together in service, compassion, and purpose.

We are honored to welcome President Elizabeth Gitau, who will be guiding the Rotary Club of Thika with vision and dedication throughout the year. Under her leadership, we look forward to impactful projects, deeper fellowship, and continued service to our community.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Immediate Past President Charity Maina for her outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment over the past year. Her legacy of service continues to inspire us all.

Here’s to a year of unity, purpose, and doing good—together.

CENTENARY DCA AWARDS

We are still filled with excitement as we continue celebrating our awards at the just concluded Centenary DCA held at the Sarova Whitesands Mombasa.

The Club received two well deserved awards for continued service above self. We are proud to have been awarded for being the highest Polio giving Club in Rotary District 9212 RY 2024-2025 and also for Excellence in Community Economic Development RY 2024-2025.

This is in recognition of the outstanding Project which entailed Business Mentorship and startup support to a group of Women in Kiandutu Slums , Thika. The group was also mentored on mental and physical health awareness and the available business funding options and how to access the funding.

The group also received donations of assorted food stuff items, clothes and kitchen utensils which were received with song and dance.

It was also very exciting to see our recent Makongeni free medical Camp captured in the Rotary International Personal Representative’s (RIPPR) report. The recognitions have inspired us to continue amplifying the “Magic of Rotary” beyond the Centenary year.

We also wish to celebrate and congratulate our babies, the Rotaract Club of Thika and Rotaract Club of JKUAT for receiving three awards. Your Mother Club is immensely proud of each one of you for adding to our DCA joy.

We are People of Action

Our global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, and leaders volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs.

KAGUNDUINI MATERNITY PROJECT

The Rotary Club of Thika, in collaboration with RC Kasiwa-minami of Japan, has successfully completed the Kagunduini Maternity Hospital project through a global grant. This transformative initiative has significantly upgraded the facility from a level 1 to a level 3 health center, equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Project Objectives and Achievements

The primary goal of the Kagunduini Health Centre project was to enhance maternal and child healthcare by outfitting the maternity wing with modern equipment, thereby ensuring safer deliveries for mothers in the community. Prior to this project, many mothers had to travel long distances to access maternity services. By upgrading the dispensary, the Rotary Club of Thika has brought essential healthcare services closer to the community.

The project entailed extensive renovations of the maternity wing and the provision of vital equipment, including:

Delivery beds

Fetal monitors

Resuscitators

Microscopes

Incubators

Laundry equipment

Furniture

Installation of a standby generator

Construction of an incinerator

Provision of a solar water system

Additionally, the project included training for Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) on the importance of delivering in a health facility.

Facility Upgrade and Impact

The upgrade transformed Kagunduini from a dispensary operating from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (level 2) into a Health Centre operating 24 hours a day (level 3). Since its opening in November 2021, the Kagunduini Health Centre has seen the successful delivery of over 150 children, providing easy access to medical services for the community.

The number of staff at the facility has also increased significantly, from 3 to 21, with the government appointing additional Clinical Officers, Lab Technicians, Public Health Officers, and Nurses.

Looking Ahead

The Rotary Club of Thika remains steadfast in its dedication to improving maternal and child health in the community. The success of the Kagunduini Maternity Hospital project marks just the beginning of their efforts to provide essential support and resources. The club looks forward to continued collaboration and support from its members and the wider community.

By highlighting these activities, the Rotary Club of Thika not only underscores its commitment to maternal and child health but also fosters community engagement and support.

For more information on how you can get involved, please contact the Rotary Club of Thika. Together, we can make a significant impact on maternal and child health in Thika and beyond.