Kampala, Uganda — The legacy of the late businessman and conservation advocate Rajiv Ruparelia was celebrated in a touching tribute on Saturday after a baby chimpanzee at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary was officially named in his honour.
The ceremony, held at the renowned sanctuary on Lake Victoria, brought together members of the Ruparelia family, conservationists, development partners, and officials from the Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and the Jane Goodall Institute.
The young male chimpanzee, born on November 29, 2025, was officially named “RR”, a gesture intended to preserve and celebrate Rajiv Ruparelia’s contribution to wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and community development.
Speaking during the event, businessman and philanthropist Dr Sudhir Ruparelia described the occasion as both emotional and meaningful, saying it reflected the values that Rajiv championed throughout his life.
“Rajiv believed very strongly that those of us who have been blessed with opportunity also have a responsibility to protect the vulnerable—whether they are people, communities, or God’s creation,” Dr Ruparelia said.
He noted that the Ruparelia family has maintained a longstanding relationship with Ngamba Island, rooted in a shared commitment to conservation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable community development.
Through the Ruparelia Foundation, established in 2012, the family has supported initiatives in education, healthcare, sports, culture, environmental conservation, and wildlife protection across Uganda.
In a further demonstration of that commitment, Dr Ruparelia announced a donation of Shs50 million towards the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and the protection of chimpanzees under its care.
“True development must include care for people, care for communities, and care for nature,” he said.
The family also reflected on Rajiv’s active support for wildlife conservation initiatives, including partnerships with both Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
One of the most memorable moments in Rajiv’s conservation journey came when a young rhino at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary was named Rae Ruparelia, after his daughter. The gesture symbolised continuity, responsibility, and hope for future generations—values that Rajiv deeply embraced.
According to Dr Ruparelia, naming the chimpanzee “RR” serves not only as a memorial to his son but also as a celebration of the principles he lived by, including kindness, generosity, compassion, and social responsibility.
Officials at Ngamba Island said the ceremony highlighted the critical role partnerships play in advancing wildlife conservation and protecting Uganda’s endangered primates.
Chimpanzees at the sanctuary are rescued from a range of threats, including illegal wildlife trafficking, habitat destruction, and increasing human-wildlife conflict. The facility provides rescued animals with a safe habitat, specialised veterinary care, and opportunities to thrive.
“Many of the chimpanzees here have survived difficult circumstances. The work done at the sanctuary gives them safety, dignity and a second chance,” Dr Ruparelia said.
The event also drew attention to the sanctuary’s broader mission of chimpanzee rescue, rehabilitation, conservation education, and advocacy.
The Ruparelia family reaffirmed its commitment to supporting wildlife conservation initiatives through the Ruparelia Foundation and paid tribute to the sanctuary’s founders, veterinarians, caregivers, donors, government agencies, and conservation partners whose efforts continue to safeguard Uganda’s biodiversity.
Dr Ruparelia expressed hope that the occasion would inspire more Ugandans, families, and corporate organisations to participate in conservation efforts and contribute to preserving the country’s natural heritage.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for collective action to protect Uganda’s ecosystems and ensure future generations inherit a country where wildlife and nature continue to flourish.
For both the conservation community and the Ruparelia family, the chimpanzee named RR now stands as a lasting symbol of Rajiv Ruparelia’s enduring legacy—one defined by service, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society and the environment.