Rotary International has entered a new chapter with Olayinka Hakeem Babalola of Nigeria assuming office as its President for 2026-27, becoming only the second African to lead the global humanitarian organisation. At the same time, India has strengthened its presence in Rotary's top leadership, with A.S. Venkatesh taking charge as a Trustee of The Rotary Foundation and M. Muruganandam assuming the role of Vice President of Rotary International.

Babalola officially took over on July 1, and during his one-year tenure, he plans to strengthen Rotary's role in promoting peace, supporting community-led development and addressing global challenges through sustainable solutions.

Speaking on his vision, Babalola said Rotary offers people not only the opportunity to serve their communities but also to build meaningful relationships and understand diverse perspectives.

"At a time when many societies face division and uncertainty, Rotary has an important role in building understanding, advancing peace and helping communities thrive. As President, I look forward to strengthening that impact across the world," he said.

India's Growing Role in Global Humanitarian Efforts

Alongside the new global leadership, India has further expanded its influence within Rotary. A.S. Venkatesh has begun a four-year term (2026-2030) as a Trustee of The Rotary Foundation, the organisation's charitable arm, while M. Muruganandam has taken office as Vice President of Rotary International for 2026-27.

Highlighting the Foundation's priorities, Venkatesh said Rotary remains committed to empowering communities through sustainable and evidence-based initiatives.

"The Rotary Foundation believes lasting change begins with empowered communities and strong partnerships. Through initiatives such as Programs of Scale, Rotary Peace Centers and global polio eradication efforts, we are supporting projects that create long-term impact. As Rotary's presence in India continues to grow, we aim to strengthen local partnerships and improve more lives," he said.

Ending Polio Remains Top Priority

As President, Babalola will continue Rotary's long-standing mission to eradicate polio worldwide. Through the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary and its partners have helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 per cent, contributing more than US$3 billion and millions of volunteer hours to protect over 3 billion children against the disease.

Babalola has been actively involved in the global polio campaign, serving on the End Polio Now Countdown to History Campaign Committee and advising Nigeria's National PolioPlus Committee.

'Service Begins with People'

Echoing Rotary's people-centric approach, Vice President M. Muruganandam said the organisation's real strength lies in the commitment of its members.

"Across India, Rotary members are working closely with communities to solve local challenges through practical and sustainable solutions. As our movement continues to grow, we look forward to welcoming more people who want to create a meaningful impact both locally and globally," he said.

With more than 45,000 clubs worldwide, Rotary members undertake projects focused on disease prevention, peacebuilding, clean water, education, maternal and child health, economic development and environmental protection.

Over the past century, The Rotary Foundation has awarded more than US$5.5 billion in grants to support humanitarian projects across the world, reinforcing Rotary's mission of creating lasting and sustainable change in communities.