The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has appointed Dr. Naphtal Baguma as its new Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer, with the organisation saying his appointment will strengthen governance and expand its humanitarian footprint across the country.
The appointment, announced by the Central Governing Board on Wednesday, takes effect on 1 March 2027 and follows what URCS described as a rigorous selection process to identify a leader capable of steering the Society through its next phase of growth and transformation.
Baguma brings more than two decades of experience across the humanitarian, public and private sectors, including more than 10 years in senior leadership positions within URCS. He currently serves as Director of Supply Chain and Estates Management, where he oversees procurement, logistics, fleet operations, warehousing and asset management.
The role has also placed him in regular contact with government officials, Members of Parliament, donors and partners across the wider Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
The Board said his experience has given him an intimate understanding of URCS’s governance structures, branch networks, volunteer base and operating environment, which it considers critical as he prepares to take the helm.
“The Board is confident that Mr. Baguma’s extensive experience, institutional knowledge and leadership capabilities will position him well to lead the Uganda Red Cross Society as we strengthen our governance, systems, partnerships and humanitarian impact,” the Central Governing Board said in a statement.
Baguma holds a PhD in Governance and Finance from Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, an MBA in Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management. He is also a Chartered Member of the Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) and a Certified Procurement Professional (CPP).
His executive training includes Harvard Business School’s Management and Leadership Programme and Strathmore University’s CEO Apprenticeship Programme.
Before joining the Red Cross, Baguma held senior positions at the USAID-Mildmay Uganda Programme, Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and the Nation Media Group. His career spans donor compliance, public-sector governance, financial stewardship and strategic partnerships.
As Secretary General, Baguma is expected to prioritise organisational effectiveness, financial sustainability, deeper strategic partnerships and stronger support for URCS branches and volunteers, with a focus on delivering measurable impact for vulnerable communities across the country.
The Board also paid tribute to outgoing Secretary General Robert Kwesiga, commending his leadership through what it described as “turbulent times” and his role in ensuring a smooth handover.
URCS said the transition will be guided by a structured onboarding process aimed at preserving continuity in leadership and programming. The Society also called on staff, volunteers and partners to support the incoming chief executive.
