By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Rotary Club of Freetown, one of the most prominent and longstanding Rotary chapters in Africa, has inducted a new executive body to steer the club through the 2025/2026 Rotary year. The induction ceremony took place Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Bank of Sierra Leone Complex, Kingtom, Freetown, drawing together a distinguished gathering of Rotarians, non-Rotarians, and stakeholders from various sectors.
The prestigious event marked the official handing-over of leadership and the beginning of a new era for the club, with Rotarian Jennifer Jonah taking over as President, and Rotarian Christian M. Kamara as Vice President.
In her inaugural address, president Rtn. Jennifer Jonah expressed deep appreciation to the outgoing president and executive members for their dedication and achievements during the past year, also extending heartfelt thanks to club members for entrusting her with the responsibility to lead, pledging to uphold the ideals of the Rotary and to lead with purpose and integrity.
“As Rotarians, we do not wait for change to happen—we make the change happen,” president Jonah declared during her statement. “The theme chosen by the Rotary International President for the 2025/2026 year, ‘United for Good,’ reflects the essence of who we are. This theme will guide our mission to harness our collective strength for lasting impact.”
Rtn. Jonah further emphasized that her administration would focus on unity, innovation, and increased visibility, with the goal of strengthening the club and enhancing its influence across the community.
She outlined four key priorities for her term:-
Strengthening Membership through Innovative Activities: The new executive aims to revitalize engagement by introducing fresh ideas and programs that appeal to current and potential members.
Contributing to the Rotary Foundation: President Jonah stressed the importance of supporting the global Rotary Foundation to empower service projects worldwide, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to humanitarian causes.
Embarking on Impactful Projects: Under her leadership, the club will continue to implement sustainable, high-impact initiatives that respond to pressing community needs in areas such as health, education, and youth development.
Amplifying the Rotary Brand: The club intends to increase visibility by showcasing its projects and successes through media, outreach campaigns, and community engagement.
“This is not just about leading a club; it’s about making a meaningful difference,” she said. “We will work together, united in our purpose, to be a force for good in Freetown and beyond.”
Vice President Rtn. Christian M. Kamara, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve said, “It is always a pleasure to be part of Rotary. I want to thank president Jennifer Jonah for bringing us on board and trusting us with this responsibility. This position is one I truly cherish,” he stated. “We have a great responsibility to unite for the good of our club, and I look forward to what we can achieve together.”
The induction was not only a formal transition of leadership but also a celebration of Rotary’s enduring legacy in Sierra Leone. The Rotary Club of Freetown has long been recognized for its commitment to service above self, and the incoming leadership team is poised to build on that reputation with fresh momentum.
Guests at the event commended the club’s achievements and expressed optimism for the future under the new leadership.
The ceremony concluded with a call to action for all members to work together in the spirit of unity, service, and integrity, hallmarks of Rotary’s global mission.
With a clear roadmap and a dynamic team in place, the Rotary Club of Freetown is set to embark on another impactful chapter of service, community development, and national transformation.
