The Rotary Club of Kigali Golf has unveiled a healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to specialised treatment for prostate and kidney stone conditions, as Julie Mutoni officially took office as the club's president for the 2026-2027 year.
The initiative, announced during the club's presidential installation and fundraising gala on June 5, seeks to raise $250,000 to acquire a Holmium Laser Medical System for the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).
The club was able to raise $ 270,000.
The advanced medical technology is used to treat kidney stones, enlarged prostate and other urological conditions through minimally invasive procedures, offering patients shorter recovery periods, fewer complications and improved treatment outcomes.
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Speaking at the event, Mutoni said the project was inspired by the growing need for specialised treatment options in Rwanda and the challenges faced by patients who often seek care abroad.
"When we looked at the healthcare needs within our communities, we saw an opportunity to make a lasting difference. This project is about ensuring that more Rwandans, including the most vulnerable, can access advanced treatment for kidney stones and prostate-related conditions without having to leave the country,” she said.
According to Mutoni, the technology is currently unavailable in Rwanda and remains accessible only through a limited number of specialised facilities in the region, making treatment costly and out of reach for many patients.
She said discussions with medical professionals at CHUK revealed a growing number of patients requiring treatment for prostate-related conditions and kidney stones, highlighting the need for more advanced equipment.
"We were informed that a significant number of patients who visit the hospital require surgical intervention. This machine will improve diagnosis and treatment while reducing the need for patients to travel abroad in search of specialised care,” she said.
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Beyond improving patient outcomes, Mutoni said the project could contribute to Rwanda's ambitions of becoming a regional healthcare hub by attracting patients from neighbouring countries.
"If people can receive quality treatment in Rwanda, it not only benefits patients and families but also supports medical tourism and the broader economy,” she added.
Among the club's most notable initiatives is the Gashora Water Project, which has expanded access to clean water for residents in Bugesera District. Mutoni said the club plans to continue the project through a second phase while pursuing its healthcare agenda.
Outgoing president Andrew Kulayigye said the club is entering the new totary year from a position of strength after exceeding several of its targets during the past year.
The club raised more than $8,000 for the Rotary Foundation, surpassed its annual giving goals, recruited 25 new members and implemented a range of service projects, including the distribution of hundreds of eyeglasses to people with vision impairments.
However, Kulayigye noted that member retention and leadership participation remain areas requiring greater attention.
"As we move into the new Rotary year, we need to continue building a stronger and more engaged membership so that we can expand our impact in communities,” Kulayigye said.
Founded as part of Rotary District 9150, Rotary Club of Kigali Golf is among Rwanda's youngest Rotary clubs and currently focuses on projects in healthcare, education, environmental sustainability and community development.
Mutoni called on individuals, businesses, development partners and well-wishers to support the fundraising campaign, saying the benefits of the project would extend far beyond the hospital walls.
"My goal is to ensure that this machine is delivered within my term of office so that more patients can receive the care they need closer to home.”