Author: ankhh

The sound of engines filled Gulu City as the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally kicked off on Independence Day. The rally, which is the sixth round of the National Rally Championship, drew huge crowds of fans who came to celebrate the life and passion of the late motorsport enthusiast Rajiv Ruparelia.

The two-day event, held from October 9 to 11, covers 260.88 kilometers of tough terrain. It combines racing excitement with a tribute to Rajiv, who died in a car crash on May 3 at the age of 34.

Organized by the Federation of Motorsport Clubs of Uganda (FMU) and the Central Motor Club (CMC), the rally began at Kaunda Grounds. The Gulu City Mayor officially flagged off the race as supporters, sponsors, and officials cheered in excitement.

A total of 27 crews took part in the competition. Leading the pack were National Rally Championship contenders Ronald Sebuguzi with 241 points and Ponsiano Lwakataka with 235 points, both determined to strengthen their positions as the season nears its close.

Day One featured challenging stages such as Noblakes (15.01 km) and Wobbly (27.42 km), ending with the popular Super Special Stage at Pece War Memorial Stadium, where fans watched thrilling side-by-side action.

The mood changed when Ponsiano Lwakataka, a fan favorite, rolled his car and had to withdraw from the race. After Competitive Stage Two, Hassan Alwi Jr. led with a time of 21:02.5, followed by Duncan Mubiru at 21:04.6 and Sebuguzi at 21:15.7.

Day Two, taking place on Saturday, October 11, promises even more action. Drivers will compete in the Rajiv Ruparelia Power Stage (18.05 km), which offers extra points and could influence the final standings.

The rally has brought renewed energy and business activity to northern Uganda, running alongside the Gulu City Oktoberfest. Local hotels, restaurants, and traders are benefiting as fans gather at Pece Stadium for the main events.

Beyond the competition, the rally serves as a touching tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia’s love for motorsport and his generosity. Tree planting and borehole projects were included in the event to honor his dedication to community development.

“Rajiv was a great mind, a brother, and a father figure who gave more than he ever received,” said close friend Gideon Kirumira during the launch.

Rajiv’s father, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, attended the rally with his wife Jotysna and spoke proudly about his son’s lasting impact. “Rajiv’s legacy will live on through this memorial rally, which promotes motorsports and gives back to the community,” Sudhir said.

The rally also features major competitive stages such as the Super Special Stage Rajiv Ruparelia (1.96 km), which drivers run twice, and the KCB Bank Stage, expected to play a key role in shaping the National Rally Championship results.

Among the notable participants are the KCB Bank-sponsored pair Nasser Mutebi and Oscar Ntambi, along with Musa Ssegaabwe, Mathias Kiyegga, Duncan Mubiru, Michael Mukula, Julius Semambo, Jaffer Lukenge, Mansoor Lubega, and Bukenya Roald.

Gulu City has once again become the center of Uganda’s motorsport excitement, bringing together drivers and fans to celebrate both competition and the memory of a man who inspired the growth of the sport.

Kampala, Uganda –Winifred Nakandi has officially announced her decision to contest for the Nakawa East Member of Parliament seat as an independent candidate in the 2026 general elections. Her announcement follows her withdrawal from the National Unity Platform (NUP) race for the Kampala District Woman MP position, citing irregularities in the party’s card allocation and vetting process.

Nakandi, who previously sought the NUP ticket, made her declaration on Monday, pledging to represent the voices of ordinary citizens. She said her campaign would focus on unity and inclusive socio-economic development for the people of Nakawa East. “I will be a voice for the common person,” she stated, promising to champion the issues that directly affect daily life, from economic hardship to community empowerment.

Her independent run comes after she officially exited the NUP primaries on September 11, where she was contesting against Shamim Malende, Zahara Luyirika, and Agnes Namagembe for the Kampala Woman MP slot. Nakandi accused the party of conducting an unfair vetting process, though NUP leaders have yet to publicly comment on the matter.

Nakandi’s entry into the Nakawa East race adds new energy to an already competitive lineup that includes NUP’s Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro and NRM’s Fredrick Ruhindi. The Electoral Commission is expected to begin nominations later this month, setting the stage for a closely watched contest in one of Kampala’s most politically active constituencies.

Observers say Nakandi’s decision to go independent reflects a growing trend among opposition figures who feel sidelined by internal party disputes. Despite her differences with NUP’s internal process, she has maintained respect for the party leadership and expressed openness to continued collaboration where possible.

Nakawa East, a dynamic constituency known for its youthful population and rapid urban growth, is expected to draw strong competition as key issues such as unemployment, infrastructure, and local development dominate campaign debates. Nakandi’s platform seeks to connect with voters who are frustrated by partisan politics and eager for practical solutions.

Her announcement has sparked wide discussion both online and within Kampala’s political circles. Supporters have commended her for standing firm in her principles, while critics have questioned the strength of independent candidates in Uganda’s party-driven political landscape. As campaigning gains momentum, all eyes will be on Nakawa East to see how Nakandi’s independent message resonates with voters.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in partnership with the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council, has destroyed 100 illegal firearms in Jinja as part of activities marking the 9th commemoration of Africa Amnesty Month.

The exercise took place on Friday at Gaddafi Barracks in Jinja and symbolized Uganda’s continued dedication to peace, disarmament, and regional security. The event was led by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mr. Jacob Oboth Oboth, together with representatives from the AU Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Office on Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).

Speaking during the event, Mr. Oboth Oboth revealed that nearly 150,000 firearms and light weapons have been recovered across Uganda over the past 25 years through national and regional disarmament operations. He noted that the destruction of the weapons serves as a clear message to criminal elements and demonstrates Uganda’s unwavering commitment to peace and stability both at home and within the East African region.

Mr. Simon Peter Mundeyi, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, said that more than 32,000 illegal firearms have been recovered from communities since 2000, mostly in areas affected by cattle rustling such as Karamoja, Northern Uganda, and the Rwenzori region. He urged anyone still in possession of illegal guns to hand them over voluntarily, assuring that those who surrender them will not face prosecution. The destroyed gun parts will be collected and taken to Nakasongola for recycling.

Commander Ernest Nuwagaba of the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Centre reiterated Uganda’s commitment to the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative, which seeks to end armed conflict and reduce the circulation of illegal weapons across the continent. He noted that Africa Amnesty Month, first declared in 2017 and extended to 2030, encourages individuals and communities to surrender illicit arms and help promote lasting peace.

The African Union and the United Nations have also supported similar disarmament campaigns in other African countries, including Liberia and Togo, reflecting a shared global effort to reduce the spread of illegal weapons.

In Kampala, the commemoration was attended by H.E. Ambassador Tebelelo Alfred Boang of Botswana, who commended Uganda for its consistent role in promoting peace and regional cooperation.

In Uganda, a country known for its endless sunshine and opportunities, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia remains one of the most admired and influential figures. His name is recognised everywhere, from government officials at Entebbe International Airport to taxi drivers along Kampala Road. To many Ugandans, he is the man who reshaped Kampala’s skyline and continues to represent business success across East Africa.

At 69 years old, Sudhir is Uganda’s richest man and one of the continent’s most respected investors. He heads the Ruparelia Group, a vast business empire with interests in real estate, education, finance, hospitality, agriculture, and insurance. His businesses have become a strong foundation of Uganda’s economy, providing thousands of jobs and attracting international investment.

A Property Empire

Sudhir is the single largest property owner in Uganda, holding more than 400 prime residential and commercial properties in Kampala and other major towns. His portfolio ranges from modern office towers and shopping centres to luxury apartments and residences. Well-known landmarks such as Crane Towers, Kingdom Kampala Mall, and Speke Apartments have changed the face of the city and turned it into a modern business hub.

President Yoweri Museveni has often pointed out that the income generated from Sudhir’s real estate projects rivals the value of some of Uganda’s top exports. This shows the scale and influence of his investments on the national economy.

Hotels and Hospitality

His name is equally prominent in the hotel industry. The Speke Resort and Conference Centre in Munyonyo, one of his flagship properties, has grown into Uganda’s top venue for major international conferences. It can now host more than 5,000 delegates, making it the country’s first choice for world summits.

Other hotels in his group include Kabira Country Club, Forest Cottages, Dolphin Suites, and the historic Speke Hotel in central Kampala. These hotels welcome tourists, business leaders, and even world dignitaries. The Ruparelia Group has also moved into regional tourism, developing resorts on the shores of Lake Victoria and setting up luxury safari lodges in western Uganda to promote eco-tourism and attract high-end visitors.

Banking, Insurance, and Finance

Sudhir’s business journey began in the 1980s with a small forex exchange business. Over time, he grew into one of the most powerful players in Uganda’s financial sector. His banking, insurance, and investment companies today rank among the strongest private institutions in the country. Through them, he has improved access to financial services and contributed to the growth of Uganda’s capital markets. His work in this area has earned him praise from both policymakers and fellow business leaders.

Education and Philanthropy

Education remains the part of his empire that Sudhir is most proud of. Through institutions like Kampala Parents School, Kampala International School Uganda, and Victoria University, he has provided thousands of Ugandan children with access to high-quality learning. These schools are regarded among the most prestigious in East Africa, producing students who go on to compete at international levels.

Beyond running schools, Sudhir also supports education through sponsorships and scholarships for disadvantaged students. His Ruparelia Foundation extends its support to many other areas, including healthcare, sports, and the environment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation donated funds and medical equipment to hospitals. It has also invested in programs that support youth entrepreneurship, showing Sudhir’s commitment to building future leaders.

Wealth and Global Recognition

By 2025, Sudhir Ruparelia’s fortune is estimated at more than 1.2 billion dollars, placing him among Africa’s wealthiest individuals. International outlets such as Forbes consistently list him as Uganda’s only dollar billionaire. Even with such wealth, he remains closely connected to ordinary Ugandans. He is often seen attending public events and mingling freely with citizens, something that has earned him both respect and admiration.

A Story of Resilience

Sudhir’s journey has not been without challenges. As a young boy, he was forced into exile during Idi Amin’s regime. He returned to Uganda years later with only 25,000 dollars and started rebuilding his life. From those humble beginnings, he created an empire that now defines Uganda’s modern economy. His rise is seen as a symbol of resilience, vision, and determination.

Through his leadership, Kampala has been transformed into a modern city. His businesses have strengthened Uganda’s role in regional trade, hospitality, and investment. He is often described as more than just a businessman. To many, he is a nation-builder, a philanthropist, and an example for young entrepreneurs. His life and message show that with focus, discipline, and love for one’s country, success is possible for anyone who is willing to work for it.

In Uganda, the name Sudhir Ruparelia is almost always linked with wealth and success. For more than two decades, the billionaire businessman has remained firmly at the top of the country’s rich list. Many Ugandans have watched his rise with both admiration and curiosity, and what is clear is that his position is not about to change. If anything, the next twenty years may see his fortune grow even larger, further strengthening his status as one of the most influential business figures in the region.

What sets Sudhir apart is that he is not only a businessman chasing profits, he is also a careful planner and strategist. The Ruparelia Group, which he founded and leads, is spread across several important industries. These include banking, real estate, education, agriculture, hospitality, and media. These are not just areas that bring in money, they are also key pillars of Uganda’s economy. Because of that, his empire is well protected from sudden economic shocks and changes.

One of the clearest examples of his foresight is his investment in real estate. Kampala’s cityscape has been transformed by developments linked to Sudhir. From the well-known Speke Apartments to the modern Kingdom Kampala Mall, his properties stand as landmarks in the capital. Uganda’s population continues to grow, and urbanisation is moving at a fast pace. This means that demand for places to live, office buildings for businesses, and commercial spaces for shopping will keep rising. As a result, his properties will keep generating rental income while also gaining value over time, creating both immediate and long-term wealth.

Education is another area where Sudhir has left a strong mark. Through institutions such as Kampala Parents School, Delhi Public School International, and Victoria University, he has built a reputation for investing in learning. Unlike some businesses that may decline during hard times, education continues to attract demand because families always prioritise the future of their children. Even in difficult economic conditions, Ugandan parents make sacrifices to ensure their children get quality education. This makes Sudhir’s investment in schools and universities one of the most stable sources of revenue within his empire.

Another major reason for his staying power is his ability to recognise opportunities before others see them. In the 1990s, when the banking sector was opening up, he launched Crane Bank, which grew rapidly and became one of the most trusted local banks at the time. When real estate began to boom, he was among the first to invest heavily, placing himself at the centre of Kampala’s property development. Later, he expanded into tourism and hospitality, setting up a chain of hotels and resorts under the Speke brand, which today attracts both local and international visitors. This pattern of anticipating trends and moving quickly has allowed him to stay ahead while many other wealthy Ugandans have struggled to keep up.

Some observers believe that wealth is never permanent and that new players will eventually take over. Uganda, after all, is producing more millionaires every year. While that is true, building an empire of Sudhir’s scale requires much more than money alone. It takes networks that are built over decades, an understanding of how markets work, and the patience to allow investments to grow. Sudhir has strong connections with government officials, international financiers, and influential investors. These ties give him a reach and influence that very few of his competitors can match.

It is also important to recognise that the Ugandan business environment comes with its fair share of risks. Changes in tax regulations, political uncertainty, and global economic shocks all present challenges to entrepreneurs. Sudhir himself has faced difficulties, most notably the collapse of Crane Bank. Yet what makes his story stand out is how he responded. Instead of retreating after that crisis, he reinvented himself, put more focus on other ventures, and expanded his presence in sectors like hospitality and education. This resilience has become one of his strongest traits, proving that setbacks do not define him, but rather push him to adapt and grow stronger.

Looking at the bigger picture, Sudhir Ruparelia’s empire represents a model for building lasting wealth in Uganda. His approach is not about short-term gains but about diversification, reinvestment, and long-term vision. By spreading his interests across different industries, strengthening them over time, and staying flexible when challenges arise, he has built a foundation that can survive economic storms. Unless Uganda faces an extraordinary crisis that shakes the entire economy, it is very likely that Sudhir Ruparelia will remain the richest man in the country, not just now but for at least the next two decades.

His story is a reminder that true wealth is not only about making money. It is about planning, patience, and the ability to see opportunities before others do. Sudhir’s empire, shaped over decades, is a clear example of business built to last.

By Mike Ssegawa

When Prime Minister Robbinah Nabbanja handed Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia the Golden Flamingo Trophy during World Tourism Day celebrations in Arua last week, it was more than a personal honor. It was a recognition of how private entrepreneurship, conservation advocacy, and national ambition intersect in Uganda’s tourism sector.

Ruparelia, Uganda’s wealthiest businessman and chairman of the Ruparelia and Speke Groups, has long been a fixture in the country’s hospitality industry. His hotels dominate Kampala’s skyline, his convention centers host global gatherings, and his philanthropy supports wildlife conservation projects. This latest accolade follows years of similar recognition, highlighting how he has positioned himself as both investor and advocate for Uganda’s tourism story.

Hotels that Redefined the Market

Uganda’s tourism industry, long known for its wildlife attractions, needed the right infrastructure to grow. Ruparelia’s Speke Group of Hotels filled that gap. Speke Resort Munyonyo, Speke Hotel Kampala, Kabira Country Club, and a range of apartments have set new benchmarks for accommodation, offering everything from luxury suites to long-stay residences.

These facilities are more than beds and conference halls; they anchor Uganda’s push into the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) market. The Speke Resort Convention Centre, built in partnership with government, has expanded Uganda’s ability to host international summits, a vital sector that draws high-spending visitors and boosts the country’s profile.

Industry analysts credit Ruparelia’s properties with creating thousands of jobs and helping tourism contribute close to 10 percent of Uganda’s GDP. The Uganda Tourism Board’s hotel grading exercise consistently places his properties at the top, reinforcing his reputation as the sector’s leading private investor.

A Conservationist with a Businessman’s Touch

But Ruparelia’s influence goes beyond bricks and mortar. For years, he has aligned his investments with conservation and eco-tourism—areas increasingly central to Uganda’s tourism brand.

In 2018, he became a lifetime guardian at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and during the COVID-19 lockdown, he donated funds to help feed the primates. He has also supported the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, including sponsoring the translocation of rhinos. In 2022, the Ruparelia Foundation received the Conservation Education Award at UWEC’s 70th anniversary, cementing his status as a private champion of wildlife protection.

Tourism officials say such gestures matter. “His vision has set a global standard,” one remarked during the Golden Flamingo ceremony in Arua, praising how conservation efforts have boosted eco-tourism while strengthening Uganda’s international image.

The Wider Sector: Growth with Challenges

Ruparelia’s awards reflect more than personal achievement—they capture a moment in Uganda’s tourism industry. After pandemic setbacks, the sector has rebounded strongly, recording record revenues in 2024 and early 2025. Visitor arrivals are climbing, buoyed by business travel, improved regional marketing, and continued interest in gorilla trekking and national parks.

Tourism now ranks among Uganda’s largest foreign exchange earners. Yet challenges remain. Roads to major attractions remain underdeveloped, domestic air travel is limited, and regional competitors like Kenya and Rwanda invest heavily in global promotion. Security, conservation financing, and community benefit-sharing remain constant policy debates.

Against this backdrop, investors like Ruparelia provide both opportunities and points of discussion. His scale of investment has helped Uganda compete in the high-end market, but it also raises questions about inclusivity: how much of the tourism dividend reaches local communities, and how should government regulate sustainability standards?

Why the Accolades Keep Coming

Three factors explain why Ruparelia keeps topping award lists. First, his projects have scale and visibility, ensuring they deliver measurable economic impact. Second, his conservation philanthropy aligns with Uganda’s sustainable tourism narrative. And third, his strategy fits seamlessly into government priorities of boosting MICE tourism and fostering public-private partnerships.

As Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa noted in 2022, “Your passion and leadership in hospitality and tourism development are unmatched.” It is this dual role—business leader and sector advocate—that ensures his recognition remains constant.

Looking Ahead

Uganda’s tourism industry stands at a crossroads. The government is eyeing ambitious growth targets, from increasing annual visitor numbers to doubling foreign exchange earnings. To succeed, it will need both infrastructure and sustainable practices.

Here, Ruparelia has pledged continued investment. In his acceptance speech for the Golden Flamingo Trophy, he promised to expand hotel capacity, support wildlife programs, and deepen partnerships with government. His foundation also continues to channel funds into education and community initiatives, indirectly supporting tourism development.

The question is whether Uganda can leverage such private leadership to achieve sector-wide transformation. That will require blending corporate investments with public policy reforms, expanding infrastructure, and ensuring tourism revenues benefit surrounding communities.

Legacy in the Making

From the Lifetime Tourism Achiever Award at the Ekkula Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards in 2019, to the Best Tourism Investor Award in 2021, to this year’s Golden Flamingo Trophy, the pattern is clear: Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has carved out a unique place in Uganda’s tourism journey.

His hotels remain industry benchmarks. His conservation support continues to inspire. And his visibility at national events makes him both symbol and stakeholder in Uganda’s tourism ambitions.

As Uganda seeks to balance growth with sustainability, one thing is evident: figures like Ruparelia will remain central to the story. The accolades, it seems, are not just about personal achievement—they reflect a broader vision of Uganda’s tourism potential, and the enduring role of private leadership in making the “Pearl of Africa” shine brighter on the global stage.

 Mike Ssegawa is a Ugandan journalist with over 15 years of reporting about East Africa’s Tourism sector. 

Ugandan businessman Sudhir Ruparelia, the Chairman of Speke Group of Hotels and the Ruparelia Group, has been recognised for his remarkable impact on the country’s tourism and hospitality industry.

The award was given to him on September 27, 2025, during the World Tourism Day celebrations held in Arua City. The national event was officially led by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.

Sudhir, well known for his long-term support of wildlife conservation and eco-friendly tourism, received a golden flamingo trophy. The trophy stood as a symbol of his efforts to safeguard Uganda’s environment while positioning the country as a major travel destination worldwide.

The function took place at the Arua City Golf Course, where leaders from government, foreign dignitaries, tourism players, and members of the community gathered. This year’s celebrations were guided by the international theme, Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Nabbanja applauded the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities for its continuous work in growing the sector. She also highlighted the role of private investors such as Sudhir, saying their contributions had transformed Uganda’s economy. She noted that tourism remained one of Uganda’s strongest development pillars and stressed that investors like Dr Sudhir had uplifted hospitality while advancing wildlife protection and empowering communities.

Sudhir’s award comes after decades of dedication to tourism, hospitality, and conservation. His investments have revitalised national parks, encouraged eco-tourism, protected endangered wildlife, and created livelihoods for many Ugandans. Under his leadership, Uganda has gained stronger visibility as a preferred tourist destination, greatly contributing to national income.

This recognition further secures Sudhir Ruparelia’s place as a central figure in Uganda’s journey toward sustainable tourism.

KAMPALA – Ugandan journalist Simon Kaggwa Njala has amused social media users after sharing a light moment he experienced during a hospital visit.

Posting on his X account, Njala said: “So I go to hospital this morning and I’m assigned to a beautiful doctor. After all the examination, I pick the guts to start a casual chat. I start from complimenting her beautiful handwriting, guessing the school she attended (TRICONA). She’s so excited, puts the pen down and we start ekiboozi about traditional schools, parenting, business, marriage and the kind of kids we want.”

He explained that the conversation lasted nearly an hour even as patients waited outside.

“45 minutes later, with patients waiting outside, she begrudgingly says bye to me promising to take it up from there. I actually feel healed already. I can’t wait to get sick again,” he wrote.

The post has since gone viral, with many Ugandans reacting humorously to Njala’s story, saying he may have found more than just treatment during his hospital visit.

In Uganda today, many young people are searching for role models who can guide them on how to succeed in life and in business. While there are many successful figures to look up to, one name stands out above most: Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia. He is not only Uganda’s richest man but also a symbol of resilience, creativity, and vision. His story shows that success is possible when determination meets hard work, and there is a lot the youth of Uganda can learn from him.

Starting from Humble Beginnings

Sudhir’s story did not begin with wealth. As a young man, he and his family were forced into exile in the 1970s after the expulsion of Asians from Uganda. Living in the United Kingdom, he worked small jobs to survive and managed to save some money. By the time he returned to Uganda in the 1980s, he had only 25,000 dollars in savings. With that modest amount, he started a small business. That small step marked the beginning of what would later become the Ruparelia Group, one of the biggest business empires in East Africa.

For Ugandan youth, this is an important lesson. You do not need to come from a wealthy background to succeed. What matters is how you use the little you have. Even a small idea, when handled with discipline and effort, can grow into something big.

The Power of Hard Work and Risk-Taking

Another lesson from Sudhir’s journey is the value of hard work and the courage to take risks. He was never afraid to try new ventures. From starting Uganda’s first private foreign exchange bureau to establishing Crane Bank, and later investing heavily in real estate, education, and hospitality, Sudhir always looked ahead with confidence.

Many young people today shy away from risks because they fear failure. But Sudhir’s story shows that calculated risks can open doors. Not every project will succeed, but those who keep trying eventually build a path that leads to growth.

Diversification and Long-Term Thinking

One reason Sudhir has stayed on top of Uganda’s business world is diversification. He did not stick to one business alone. Through the Ruparelia Group, he expanded into different sectors, including real estate, education, floriculture, and hospitality. This strategy helped him survive challenges in some sectors because other businesses continued to support his empire.

Young people should understand that depending on one source of income is risky. Even when starting small, it is important to think of ways to grow into different areas over time. Equally important is long-term vision. Sudhir never rushed for quick gains. Instead, he invested in businesses that would remain strong for years, like property and hotels.

Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Sudhir’s journey has not been without setbacks. When Crane Bank was controversially closed in 2016, many thought it would end his dominance. Instead, he reorganized and strengthened other parts of his empire, especially real estate and hospitality. Today, he is still one of the most influential business leaders in Uganda.

For the youth, this teaches resilience. Failure or setbacks should not be the end. What matters is the ability to rise again, learn from mistakes, and rebuild stronger.

Trust, Discipline, and Family Involvement

Another lesson is the importance of trust and discipline in business. Sudhir is known for keeping his word and for being disciplined in his investments. He avoids chasing quick fads and instead follows clear strategies. This kind of discipline prevents unnecessary losses.

He also works closely with his family, who are deeply involved in running the Ruparelia Group. This shows the value of involving those closest to you in building a legacy that lasts. Young people should remember that success is not just about personal gain but also about creating opportunities for others, including family and community.

Giving Back to Society

Sudhir is also known for his philanthropy. He has supported schools, hospitals, and disaster relief efforts. His donations have helped communities and improved lives. For the youth, this is a reminder that success is not complete without giving back. True leadership is measured not only by personal wealth but also by the positive difference one makes in society.

A Role Model for the Future

Uganda is a young country, with most of its population below the age of 30. Many young people face unemployment and limited opportunities. Learning from examples like Sudhir Ruparelia can help them believe in themselves and think more creatively about their futures. His journey shows that success does not come overnight but through patience, planning, and continuous effort.

Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s life is more than a story of becoming wealthy. It is a story of resilience, vision, and responsibility. For the Ugandan youth, it is a reminder that with determination, discipline, and the courage to take risks, they too can build lasting success.

Kampala businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia was the Guest of Honor at the “Meet the CEO” event held by the French Chamber of Commerce Uganda (FCCU) on September 24. The gathering, hosted at Kabira Country Club, also marked one year since the chamber began operations in Uganda. The event brought together business leaders, diplomats, and investors to celebrate partnerships between French and Ugandan companies.

The evening featured speeches and networking, but much of the attention was on Dr. Ruparelia. Uganda’s most prominent businessman was invited to share his entrepreneurial story, which has become an example of determination and long-term planning. He spoke about starting with little, working hard, and growing into one of the country’s top investors and largest taxpayers. His remarks on resilience and vision were well received by the audience, many of whom saw his journey as proof that persistence leads to opportunity.

Jean-Philippe Bittencourt, Vice President of FCCU, commended Dr. Ruparelia for supporting initiatives that link businesses across borders. He said the chamber’s progress in its first year was impressive but noted that role models like Sudhir encourage both French and Ugandan entrepreneurs to think bigger.

The French Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Véronique Leroy, also addressed the gathering. She spoke about Uganda’s untapped potential and urged businesses to highlight the country’s opportunities in tourism, trade, and investment. Her message emphasized Uganda’s growing role in regional and global markets.

The choice of Kabira Country Club as the venue was also significant. The hotel, part of the Ruparelia Group, reflects the group’s investment in high-quality facilities in Uganda. Hosting the chamber’s anniversary there was another reminder of Sudhir’s influence on the country’s business landscape.

The FCCU was established to create stronger connections between French and Ugandan businesses. In its first year, it has encouraged trade, promoted investment opportunities, and built a platform for knowledge-sharing. The presence of Dr. Ruparelia, a leading figure in Uganda’s private sector, added weight to the celebrations and underlined the importance of local participation in international partnerships.

For many Ugandans, Sudhir is more than just a businessman. His career, which began with small ventures, has grown into an empire employing thousands of people across different sectors, from real estate to hospitality. His involvement in events like this shows a willingness to guide and support future generations of entrepreneurs.

As the anniversary came to a close, members of the chamber expressed optimism about the years ahead. With Uganda aiming to strengthen its role as an investment hub in East Africa, collaboration between international partners and local companies such as the Ruparelia Group is expected to open new doors.

The FCCU may be new, but its first year has already shown results. With the involvement of leaders like Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the chamber’s mission to promote resilience, vision, and cross-border cooperation is beginning to take firm shape.