In October, six Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Abuja Maitama (D9127) joined the Rotary Club of Kitengela (D9212) for a Rotary Friendship Exchange- the programme that invites members to host one another in their homes and clubs to deepen understanding, spark joint projects and build peace through people-to-people ties.
The visit opened at the Giraffe Centre, a fitting Kenyan prologue: in a capital city edged by a national park, conservation, community and commerce must coexist. Cultural exchange followed; Kenyan storytelling meeting Nigerian singing- at a fireside fellowship co-hosted with the Rotary Club of Athi Kapiti.
There, District Governor Nominee Dr. Patrisio Njeru noted that learning across borders “shortens the distance between a good idea and a good outcome,” and members swapped insights on Rotary travel, membership and projects- practical lessons carried home by both clubs.
Service anchored the weekend as the teams joined the Nairobi End Polio Walk at the University of Nairobi, where District Governor Wairimu Njage welcomed the visitors and saluted their commitment to PolioPlus (Rotary’s global eradication fund).
“Mgeni njoo, mwenyeji apone. Let the guest come so the host may be blessed. Your songs, joy and openness reminded us that fellowship is an operating system; when we share homes, food and stories, collaboration becomes second nature, Rotary Club of Kitengela President Caroline Njiru reflected on the spirit of the exchange.
Head of the visiting contingent Winifred Mbashall thanked the hosts, ending with Abuja Maitama’s signature refrain: “..... We love you oooh!”
Next steps include planning a reciprocal visit to Abuja, coordinated End Polio fundraising, and looking forward to the District Conference in Naivasha, Kenya as well as the Rotary Convention 2026 in Taipei.