As Uganda marked its 63rd Independence Anniversary, the Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) Secretary General, Robert Kwesiga, was honored with a national award by President Yoweri Museveni in recognition of his outstanding humanitarian leadership and service to the nation.
The award, presented during the Independence Day celebrations at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on October 9, 2025, celebrates Kwesiga’s transformative leadership in rebuilding the Red Cross and strengthening Uganda’s capacity to respond to disasters and emergencies.
Under Kwesiga’s stewardship, URCS has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade. In 2013, the organization was on the brink of collapse, burdened with debts exceeding USD 10 million and struggling with reputational challenges. Through strategic reforms and steadfast leadership, the Red Cross cleared all legacy debts, restored public and donor confidence, and re-established itself as Uganda’s leading humanitarian organization.
Today, the Uganda Red Cross operates a robust national network of volunteers, with an expanded funding portfolio and stronger operational capacity in disaster response, health interventions, and community resilience programs.
Kwesiga’s recognition also highlights URCS’s enduring partnership with the Government of Uganda. As an auxiliary to public authorities in humanitarian work, the Red Cross plays a critical role in disaster preparedness and response, refugee assistance, epidemic control, and climate adaptation initiatives. The organization works closely with the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Health, and Ministry of Disaster Preparedness to deliver timely support during crises.
Speaking after receiving the award, Kwesiga expressed gratitude for the honor, dedicating it to the organization’s staff and volunteers.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the Uganda Red Cross Society and our incredible staff and volunteers across the country,” he said. “This accolade is a testament to the power of collective action, community resilience, and the spirit of humanity that drives our work every day.”
URCS extended appreciation to the President and the Government for the recognition, reaffirming its commitment to serving communities with compassion, integrity, and unity in line with the global Red Cross and Red Crescent principles.