The Ruparelia Group, one of Uganda’s most prominent privately owned conglomerates, remains a central force in shaping the country’s economic landscape while steadily expanding beyond national borders. Under the leadership of its founder, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the Group has grown from early entrepreneurial ventures into a diverse network of businesses operating across key sectors.
Dr. Ruparelia began his business career in the United Kingdom before returning to Uganda in the 1980s, during a period of renewed economic stability. From modest beginnings, he gradually built an extensive portfolio that today employs thousands of Ugandans and provides services in education, real estate, hospitality, insurance, media, construction and agriculture.
A Business Empire Built on Diversification
By mid-2024, the Group oversaw more than 20 subsidiary companies. Among the most notable is Meera Investments, the real estate arm credited with contributing to Kampala’s modern skyline through commercial buildings, residential properties and mixed-use developments. The hospitality division includes Kabira Country Club, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Speke Apartments and several other facilities that have become key players in Uganda’s accommodation and conference industry.
In the education sector, the Group operates Kampala Parents’ School, Kampala International School Uganda, Delhi Public International School and Victoria University. These institutions serve both local and international students, offering high-quality learning environments and contributing to Uganda’s professional talent pipeline. The conglomerate also owns Goldstar Insurance, Premier Recruitment, Vcon Construction and Sanyu FM 88.2, one of the country’s pioneering private radio stations.
Ruparelia Group’s presence extends to floriculture through Premier Roses Limited and Rosebud Limited. These companies export fresh roses to global markets from Entebbe, supporting Uganda’s agricultural exports and contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings.
Expanding Influence Across the Region
Beyond Uganda, the conglomerate has expanded into Rwanda, South Sudan, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom, strengthening its role in regional and international business development. Major projects include the upcoming Pearl Business Park, an 18-acre development in Kampala featuring a shopping mall, a five-star hotel and a modern hospital. The Speke Resort Convention Centre at Munyonyo recently hosted the 19th Non-Aligned Movement and G-77+China summits, welcoming over 70 heads of state and delegations from 120 countries.
Other ventures include Arie Towers in Nakasero and Paradise Island Resort on Lake Victoria, positioned to become one of East Africa’s most distinctive luxury destinations.
The Group’s investments have wide economic impact. Its businesses create employment for thousands of Ugandans across professional, technical and entry-level roles, while stimulating growth in construction, logistics, tourism, farming and related industries. Suppliers, contractors and service providers benefit from consistent demand generated by the Group’s varied operations.
Through its educational institutions and internal staff development programs, the Group contributes to skills advancement, helping prepare a workforce capable of meeting the demands of Uganda’s growing economy.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s approach to building enterprises—combining large-scale investment with long-term national value—has made the Ruparelia Group one of the country’s most influential economic drivers. As Uganda continues to navigate rapid urbanization and evolving market needs, the Group remains a major contributor to national growth, employment and development.
