Every year, October 24 marks World Polio Day, a global event to raise awareness and support efforts towards eradicating polio, a crippling and potentially fatal infectious disease. This year, the day is even more significant as the world edges closer to achieving the ultimate goal of complete eradication. Uganda, through the collaborative efforts of Rotary and Rotaract clubs, remains at the forefront of this mission, playing a crucial role in supporting the fight against polio.  

Since Rotary launched the PolioPlus initiative in 1985, significant strides have been made in reducing polio cases by 99.9% globally. In Uganda, Rotarians and Rotaractors have played a key role in vaccination drives, fundraising, and raising awareness in vulnerable communities.  

In Uganda, Rotary and Rotaract clubs have actively participated in vaccination campaigns, raising funds, and advocating for increased government and public support to achieve total eradication. Through community outreach, awareness programs, and fundraising events, the clubs have contributed to ensuring that every child receives the life-saving polio vaccine.  



One of the hallmark initiatives is the Rotary Family Health Days, during which Rotarians and Rotaractors work with local health authorities to provide free polio vaccinations along with other essential health services. These efforts have made a significant impact in remote and underserved areas where access to healthcare remains a challenge.  

As we celebrate World Polio Day 2024, Rotary and Rotaract Uganda continue their dedication to the cause, echoing Rotary’s commitment to “End Polio Now.” Though polio has been eradicated in most parts of the world, the fight is not over. There is still a need for vigilance, funding, and continued vaccination to ensure polio is gone for good.  
We can make history and ensure that no child in Uganda or around the world suffers from this preventable disease ever again.  

Because together, we can end polio now.