Accra: Rotary International President Elect M¡rio C©sar Martins de Camargo has issued a call to action for Rotarians, urging them to explore strategies to boost the organization's membership and broaden its impact, particularly in Africa.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. de Camargo highlighted Africa's potential, emphasizing the continent's vast population as fertile ground for Rotary's activities. He posed a pivotal question, asking, "What must we do in Ghana, C´te d'Ivoire, Tanzania, Zambia, Angola, or Mozambique to increase our numbers and expand our impact?" He also expressed concern over Rotary's ongoing challenge with member retention, noting that the organization loses 150,000 members annually. He emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming and engaging club environment to prevent member attrition.
During a media briefing in Accra, Mr. de Camargo underscored Africa's status as an emerging continent with growing infrastructure, education, and a rising middle class, which he believes aligns well with Rotary's mission. He called for stronger collaboration between Rotary, governments, and institutions in areas such as healthcare, education, and peacebuilding. His visit to Ghana was part of a broader tour aimed at engaging African Rotarians in preparation for his term from 2025 to 2026.
Mr. de Camargo's theme, "Unite the World," reflects his vision of overcoming divisions through service. He urged Rotarians to focus on unity, growth, service, and connection while expanding what he described as "the best-qualified team of volunteers on the planet." His visit is seen as a significant moment for Rotary International and its Ghanaian leadership, as it strengthens the organization's strategic humanitarian efforts across Africa.
The President-Elect's current tour includes stops in several African countries, including C´te d'Ivoire, So Tom© and Prncipe, Zambia, Tanzania, Angola, Mozambique, South Africa, and Ethiopia. As part of his Ghana visit, he participated in various events, including the launch of the Rotary Zone 22 (Africa) 2025 Regional Team Learning Season and a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty Ga Mantse Tackie Teiko Tsuru II.
Mr. de Camargo's engagement with local Rotary leaders also included the commissioning of a US$ 200,000 ultra-modern clinic in Berekuso, near Aburi, in the Eastern Region. This initiative underscores Rotary's commitment to community development and healthcare.
Rotary International, founded in February 1905 in Chicago, Illinois, is a global network of nearly two million volunteers. The organization is dedicated to providing service to others, promoting integrity, and advancing understanding, goodwill, and peace through the fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. Rotary is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, United States.
