DISTRICT GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE FOR SEPTEMBER 2026

Opening Doors Through Education. Creating Lasting Impact.

Education is more than learning to read and write. It is about unlocking potential, creating opportunity and giving people the tools to shape their own future. During September, Rotary places the spotlight on Basic Education and Literacy—and across District 9400, our clubs are already making a difference in classrooms, libraries and communities.

But our opportunity goes beyond donating books or stationery. We can support teachers, strengthen early childhood development, create safe and inspiring places to learn, improve access to technology and help young people develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Every child who learns to read gains access to a bigger world. Every teacher we empower can influence hundreds of lives. Every investment we make in education has the potential to impact generations.

My Challenge to Clubs

Look beyond the immediate need and ask: How can we create lasting change through education?

Partner with schools. Listen to teachers. Engage parents and communities. Collaborate with other Rotary clubs and organisations. And where possible, build projects that are sustainable, measurable and capable of growing. Because when we strengthen education, we don't simply change a classroom—we change futures.

CONWELL CHACHEKA - DISTRICT ROTARACT REP 2026/27

Rotaract is Rotary International's global network of young adult leaders aged 18 and older who are committed to creating positive change in their communities and around the world. Through service projects, leadership development, professional networking and international collaboration, Rotaractors develop the skills, relationships and experience needed to become leaders in their professions and communities while living Rotary's values of Service Above Self.

Rotaract District 9400 Focus Areas | 2026–2027
 "Back to Basics – Rooted in Service." 
  • Maternal and Child Health – supporting healthier mothers, babies and families.
  • Community Economic Development – empowering communities through sustainable development initiatives.
  • Membership Growth – expanding Rotaract by strengthening existing clubs and chartering new clubs.
  • Leadership & Professional Development – equipping members with leadership skills, professional development opportunities and Rotary learning resources.
  • Meaningful Service & Collaboration – increasing local, international and joint projects with Rotary and Interact Clubs.
  • Strong Governance & Public Image – ensuring well-governed clubs while raising the profile and impact of Rotaract across District 9400.  
SYLVIA KNOOP DISTRICT GOVERNOR ANN 2026/27
Rotary Anns have long been the compassionate heart of Rotary. While Rotarians lead many service initiatives, our Anns are often the quiet force behind the scenes—offering care, kindness, and practical support where it is needed most. 
Vision for 2026–2027
Under the leadership of District Governor's Ann Sylvia Knoop, the vision for the year is to strengthen and expand the Rotary Anns movement across District 9400 by working alongside Rotary Clubs to establish or revitalise Anns Clubs. The aim is to create welcoming spaces where women—particularly those who may be retired, single, widowed, or seeking greater community connection—can find friendship, purpose, and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution through service. By belonging to something bigger than themselves, they can enrich both their own lives and the lives of those they serve. 

Focus Area: Supporting the Differently Abled

The Rotary Anns' signature focus for the 2026–2027 Rotary year will be supporting people living with disabilities.

Youth Exchange (YEX) 
Club Projects
FUN Raisers
New Club
Celebrations
 
Inductions
 
Events
Exclusive DG Interview 
OLAYINKA HAKEEM BABALOLA - RI PRESIDENT 2026/27

Rotary has a way of surprising you.

It surprises you when a stranger across the table becomes a lifelong friend. It surprises you when a small project in one neighborhood ripples outward in ways you never imagined. And it may surprise you when you realize that the person Rotary has changed most … is you.

That is why this year, we are called to harness the change within ourselves, to look to the future, and to Create Lasting Impact.

EMMANUEL KATONGOLE - RI DIRECTOR 21 & 22
As a Rotary International Director, Katongole will champion the organization's core values of service, fellowship, diversity, and integrity. He is committed to fostering collaboration among Rotarians, inspiring young people, and addressing global challenges. With his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to service, Katongole is poised to make a lasting impact on Rotary International and the world.

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District Governor
Grace Van Zyl
District Governor Elect
Harry Nxumalo
District Governor Nominee
Jean Bernardo