Strengthening Bonds Between India and South Africa

South African Rotarians were honoured to welcome Rotary International Director Flt. Lt. K.P. Nagesh and his family to Johannesburg in May 2026, following his attendance at a Rotary engagement in Cape Town as the Rotary International President’s Personal Representative.

RID Nagesh was accompanied by his wife, Uma Nagesh; their daughter, Nidhi Nagesh; and his personal assistant, Nikitha. During their three-day Johannesburg visit, the delegation was hosted by ICC Executive Council President PDG Annemarie Mostert, Past Assistant Governor Hans Mostert and ICC Committee Member AG Shereen Hunter.

The programme combined Rotary fellowship, cultural experiences, project visits and meaningful conversations about strengthening relations between India and Africa through Intercountry Committees.

A particularly significant part of the visit was the delegation’s experience at Sanctuary Mandela, where the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela provided an important South African context for discussions about leadership, peace and service. The delegation also visited Satyagraha House, the Johannesburg home associated with Mahatma Gandhi and the development of his philosophy of non-violent resistance. Together, the two heritage experiences highlighted the historic connection between India and South Africa and the enduring legacies of Gandhi and Mandela.

The delegation was introduced to the Rotary Foundation supported greenhouse and aquaponics training project in Randburg.

Established through a Rotary Global Grant, the facility demonstrates how practical training, food security and sustainable development can create lasting opportunities for communities.

Another highlight was a visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex in Northriding. The impressive complex provided a familiar cultural connection for the Indian visitors while illustrating Johannesburg’s rich diversity and the contribution of the Indian community to South African society.

RID Nagesh brings an extraordinary record of leadership to Rotary. A former Indian Air Force officer, entrepreneur, educator and social activist, he has created employment for thousands of people and established vocational training opportunities for rural youth.

He also has a passion for cricket, and a stop at Johannesburg’s Wanderers Cricket Stadium, where a large mural of Sachin Tendulkar welcomed him, provided another magical moment. He served as District Governor of Rotary International District 3190 and was elected Rotary International Director for 2025-2027.

More than a sightseeing programme, the visit demonstrated the true value of ICC relationships, building trust, deepening cultural understanding and creating connections that can lead to future collaboration and service. The warmth shared between the visitors and their South African hosts reflected Rotary at its best; friendship across borders, united by a common commitment to service and peace.