KAMPALA — Indian business leaders and entrepreneurs in Uganda have highlighted businessman Dr Sudhir Ruparelia’s contribution to the growth of the Indian business community, saying his entrepreneurial journey demonstrated the opportunities available to investors willing to build long-term businesses in the country.
The remarks come as members of Uganda’s Indian business community prepare for India Day 2026, an annual celebration that brings together cultural, business and community activities while highlighting the longstanding relationship between Uganda and India.
Dr Ruparelia, who has built businesses in sectors including real estate, hospitality and education, is regarded by members of the community as one of the entrepreneurs whose success provided a visible example of what could be achieved through sustained investment in Uganda.
For some Indian entrepreneurs, his experience has helped reinforce the view that Uganda can be more than a market for trade, but also a place to establish businesses, create jobs and make long-term investments.
The Indian business community has maintained a presence in Uganda for more than a century, with the Indian Association Uganda tracing the community’s history in the country to 1904.
Over the years, Indian-owned businesses have expanded into areas including manufacturing, trade, hospitality, education, technology and property.
Against this background, Dr Ruparelia’s business journey has attracted recognition from entrepreneurs who view his growth as part of a broader story of Indian investment and entrepreneurship in Uganda.
His businesses have also employed Ugandans and contributed to activity in sectors in which the community continues to invest.
The recognition comes at a time when India Day organisers are seeking to use the annual event to celebrate both Indian heritage and the community’s contribution to Uganda.
Dr Ruparelia, through Ruparelia Group, is among the corporate supporters of this year’s India Day celebration.
Organising committee chairman Paresh Mehta has thanked sponsors and partners supporting the event, including Ruparelia Group, Victoria University, Bank of Baroda, Tyre Express, Tembo Steels, Technology Associates, Empile Casino and Britannia.
The event is scheduled for October 3, 2026, with Indian singer Neha Kakkar expected to headline the entertainment programme.
However, organisers say the celebration will also carry a humanitarian component, with proceeds expected to support medical treatment for vulnerable Ugandans.
The initiative is expected to contribute towards about 160 heart surgeries for children below five years and approximately 1,000 cataract surgeries.
For members of Uganda’s Indian business community, the story of entrepreneurs such as Dr Ruparelia extends beyond the growth of individual companies.
They argue that successful businesses can contribute to employment, investment and the wider economy while encouraging other entrepreneurs to establish themselves in Uganda.
As India Day approaches, organisers and members of the community are expected to use the occasion to celebrate their heritage, strengthen ties between Uganda and India and recognise contributions made to Uganda’s economic and social development.
For a generation of Indian entrepreneurs who have chosen to invest and build businesses in Uganda, Dr Ruparelia’s journey remains an example of the possibilities they see in the country.