A Reflection by ROTOM Executive Director, Kenneth Mugayehwenkyi
Ten years ago ROTOM was celebrating its 10th anniversary and something remarkable happened that would leave a lasting impression on me. I decided to take on a challenge that would bring attention to the struggles faced by older persons and highlight the work ROTOM was doing to support them.
So, on 28th September 2013, I laced up my shoes and set off from our ROTOM office in Muhanga, Kabale (now the Rukiga district). “This is it! I don’t know what lies ahead, but I know by God’s grace, we shall make it,” I whispered to a journalist friend who had joined me and hundreds other wonderful friends on this pilgrimage from South Western to Central Uganda. For 400 kilometers, we walked; step by step, sharing stories and being blessed at churches and mosques along the way. I wanted us to shine a light on the strength and resilience of older persons and remind everyone of their incredible spirit. But also, it was important to me that this walk would inspire many others to do something for the ageing members of our nation. For where they were, was where we were headed too.
As we walked, I deeply reflected on the hardships they often endure, yet their determination never wavered. It was both humbling and inspiring to see everyone that came out to support us and when we finally reached our destination, the ROTOM head office in Namubiru-Mukono, we celebrated our 10th anniversary in jubilation.
But it wasn’t just a celebration of our achievements. It was also a time of new beginnings. We officially opened the ROTOM Health Center in Namubiru; a place where older persons could receive the essential care they needed, in an environment thoughtfully designed for their needs. It was a symbol of our unwavering commitment to the care and dignified living of older persons.
Now, as we approach our 20th anniversary this October of 2023, we are preparing for another pivotal moment in our organization’s history. The ROTOM@20 CEO Walk will be a chance for us to come together again; united in our mission to build a more dignified and fulfilling future for seniors.
We have invited 20 CEOs to join us on this symbolic journey; Walking 20 Kilometers to Celebrate 20 years of ROTOM but also raise awareness about the plight and needs of older persons. It’s an opportunity to inspire others and show them the difference we can make when we stand together to support our aging population.
Alongside the CEO Walk we launched the 20K Campaign this summer. We are asking people from all walks of life to contribute whatever they can, whether it’s UGX 20,000 or 200,000 or 2,000,000 or even more. Every little bit counts! Each donation represents a commitment to the well-being of our beloved seniors!
As I reflect on the “Walking Man” a journey I made a decade ago and look forward to the ROTOM@20 CEO Walk, I can’t help but feel grateful for the incredible support we’ve received. It’s because of individuals like YOU that we’ve been able to make a real difference in the lives of older persons.
So, let’s continue this journey together, guided by compassion and a shared vision. With your support we can create a future where older persons thrive, age with grace, and receive the care and dignity they deserve!
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary story so far. Our ministry depends on you!
With Gratitude,
Edmund Kenneth Mugayehwenkyi
Founder & Executive Director, Reach One Touch One Ministries