Exploring Arusha: A Rotary Adventure of Connection and Collaboration
By Ruth Munyi
The Rotary Club of Nairobi Thika Road embarked on an exhilarating journey to Arusha, Tanzania, igniting a tapestry of vibrant experiences and meaningful connections.
It’s a tradition woven with the colorful threads of our annual road trips, fondly dubbed “Tembea Kenya,” where each mile traversed serves as a fundraiser for the Rotary Foundation, a cornerstone of Rotary International’s mission.
This year, our compass pointed toward District 9214, where the Rotary Club of Arusha, Tanzania, extended a warm embrace as our host. With hearts brimming with excitement and a caravan of 74 Rotarians and non-Rotarians, we embarked on a road less travelled, leading us to the heart of the East African Community.
Our first stop was a project visit to Kimandolu Primary School. Here, amidst the embrace of lush landscapes, we witnessed the tangible impact of Rotary’s ethos in action. Partnering with government stakeholders in the water, sanitation and hygiene sector, the Rotary Club of Arusha has spearheaded WASH projects, transforming school facilities into modern havens of hygiene and health. As we listened to the melodic voices of learners articulating the importance of hygiene in fluent Swahili, it was a testament to the power of Rotary in fostering tangible change.
Refreshed and invigorated, we converged for a joint fellowship with our esteemed hosts, under the banner of “Power of Collaboration.” Twenty-two Rotary clubs, spanning three districts, united in a harmonious symphony of camaraderie and purpose.
Against the backdrop of International Women’s Day, we celebrated the indomitable spirit of inclusivity, with the rhythmic sway of dancers honoring the contributions of women. As tokens of appreciation, our hosts bestowed bouquets of flowers upon each lady, symbolizing the beauty of unity and gratitude.
Day two unfolded like a canvas painted by the hand of nature itself, as we ventured to Kikuletwa Springs in Moshi. The two-hour drive from Arusha unveiled a sanctuary of serenity, where warm waters embraced weary souls and laughter echoed amidst the rustle of leaves.
With hearts brimming with national pride, we sang anthems of unity, etching memories against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. The famed Swing of Kikuletwa became a stage for impromptu performances, destined to capture hearts and minds.
As the sun bid adieu to our Tanzanian odyssey, we carried with us not just memories but invaluable lessons in connection and collaboration. Friendships forged, networks intertwined – this is the essence of Rotary’s transformative power.
For in the tapestry of life, it is the threads of connection and compassion that weave the fabric of our shared humanity. And so, with renewed purpose and boundless gratitude, we set our sights on the horizon, ready to embark on the next chapter of our Rotary journey, where every step is a testament to the power of Rotary, the power of unity, and the power of hope.
Our hearts were buoyed by the promise of future missions, we cherish the ethos that binds us: Service Above Self. Onward, to the next chapter of impact and inspiration.
