Kampala, Uganda: The Lohana Community Uganda has announced a newly elected Board of Trustees following its Annual General Meeting, ushering in a fresh leadership team that includes prominent businessman Sudhir Ruparelia.
According to a statement released by Executive Committee Chairman Janak Gadhia, members overwhelmingly endorsed a five-member board composed of Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Dr. Hitesh Panchmatia, Dr. Chirag Kotecha, Mr. Bhasker Kotecha and Mr. Raj Sakaria.
Gadhia commended members of the community for their continued support and participation during the AGM, describing the gathering as successful and united. He also applauded the efforts of the Lohana Executive Committee, the Lohana Mahila Mandal and the Youth Wing for sustaining community programmes and activities.
The chairman further paid tribute to outgoing trustees Mr. Kiran Bhimjiyani and Mr. Chetan Pabari, recognising their contribution and dedication to the community over the years.
The appointment of Sudhir Ruparelia to the board signals a renewed leadership role for one of Uganda’s most influential entrepreneurs within the Asian community. Through the Ruparelia Group, Ruparelia has built investments spanning real estate, hospitality, education, banking and agriculture, employing thousands of Ugandans.
The Lohana Community Uganda traces its roots to the Lohana trading community from Sindh and Gujarat in India, many of whom settled in East Africa during the colonial era and became deeply involved in regional commerce.
Before the 1972 expulsion of Asians from Uganda under Idi Amin, the Lohana community was among the key drivers of Uganda’s private sector, with prominent families contributing significantly to manufacturing, trade and industrial development.
Following years in exile across the United Kingdom, Canada and other countries, many families later returned to Uganda to rebuild businesses and revive cultural institutions after political stability was restored in the 1980s.
Today, the community remains active in cultural preservation, philanthropy, youth empowerment and educational programmes while maintaining a strong footprint in Uganda’s business environment.
The newly elected trustees are expected to steer the community’s future initiatives, strengthen welfare programmes and expand cultural and charitable engagement within Uganda.