Lion Manish Chavda.
With over 22 years of dedicated service in Lionism, Lion Manish Chavda stands at the forefront of a movement grounded in compassion, unity and meaningful impact. Now as District Governor (DG) of Lions International in Tanzania, he has already begun reshaping the landscape of Lionism across the country – – bringing renewed energy, forging stronger partnerships and fostering a shared sense of purpose under the guiding theme “Aspire to Inspire” and the call to action, “Ignite the Lion Within.” In this exclusive interview with The Arusha News Reporter DAVID CHIKOKO, the DG outlines his vision for the future of Lionism in Tanzania and shares how service, sustainability and unity will define his tenure. Read on…
Question: What inspired you to take up the role of Governor and what does this leadership position mean to you personally and professionally?
A: Having been a Lion for over 22 years, I have witnessed the transformative power of service. Taking up the role of District Governor was inspired by a deep desire to give back to the movement that has shaped my leadership journey.
Personally, it is a privilege to serve and to inspire others to lead with compassion and courage. Professionally, it presents an opportunity to build systems that empower and sustain our work. Over the past five months, this experience has reaffirmed my belief that leadership in Lionism is not defined by a title — it is defined by the ability to ignite the Lion within every member.
Q. What is your core vision for the Lions Club in Tanzania during your tenure and what key priorities are guiding your leadership?
A. My vision is to build a vibrant, united and impactful Lions movement across Tanzania. Guided by the theme “Aspire to Inspire”, my priorities centre on growth, visibility and sustainability.
We are expanding membership and extending our service reach, strengthening leadership capacity and amplifying the story of Lionism through advocacy and strategic storytelling. Our goal is simple — to make every Lion proud of their contribution and every Tanzanian aware of the impact Lions create.
Q. Community service remains central to Lions’ identity. Which specific sectors have you prioritised and why?
A: Community service is the heartbeat of Lionism. This year, we are focusing on Hunger Relief, Diabetes Awareness, Childhood Cancer, Vision Care and Environmental Sustainability.
Our Hunger Programme has already reached thousands of families as we move towards our goal of serving 300,000 people. Our SightFirst campaigns, for which Lions are well known throughout the country, have screened more than 500,000 individuals and provided eye care in remote regions across Tanzania, reaching as far as Pemba and Zanzibar.
We are also expanding youth engagement programmes to ensure that young people not only benefit from our initiatives, but actively help to shape them.
Q. Membership growth and engagement are critical for sustainability. How are you strengthening membership retention while attracting younger professionals into the Lions movement?
A: Five months into this journey, I have seen that members remain committed when they feel valued, connected and inspired. We are therefore focusing on mentorship, leadership development and meaningful recognition.
To inspire younger professionals, we have introduced flexible club models, strengthened digital engagement and created space for youth-led service projects. These initiatives are making Lionism more dynamic and inclusive, helping us connect with the next generation of service-minded leaders.
Q. Tanzania faces various social and economic challenges. How can Lions Clubs position themselves as stronger partners to government institutions, private sector actors and civil society in addressing these issues?
A: Lions Clubs are uniquely positioned to serve as trusted partners in development. In the past five months, we have strengthened collaboration with government ministries, health agencies, private companies and civil society organisations to align our service initiatives with national priorities — particularly in healthcare, education and environmental protection.
Through these partnerships, we ensure that our projects complement existing efforts, expand reach and deliver sustainable results that benefit communities across Tanzania.
Q. What innovative programmes or legacy projects are you introducing that will define your tenure?
A. Legacy is built through service that endures. During this term, we have launched the Lions Health Outreach Programme, a mobile initiative offering diabetes and vision screening in rural areas.
We are also preparing the Youth Leadership and Innovation Summit to mentor emerging changemakers. The Msandaka Vocational Training Centre for Children with Special Abilities in Moshi, the Lions Eye Centre at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Arusha and the Lions Eye Centre at Bugando Hospital in Mwanza are among the projects regarded as part of our enduring legacy.
Our Environmental Legacy Project is another key focus — mobilising clubs for tree planting, waste management and clean energy awareness campaigns. Each initiative reflects our commitment to leaving behind a legacy of health, empowerment and sustainability.
Q. Finally, what message would you like to share with current Lions members and the broader Tanzanian community?
A: To my fellow Lions — thank you for your passion, unity and service. The progress we have achieved together in just five months proves that when Lions unite, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.
To my countrymen— we invite you to join hands with us. Partner with us, volunteer with us and help create a nation where compassion and service thrive. Together, we can aspire to inspire and truly ignite the Lion within for a brighter and more united Tanzania.
