Businessman and Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) mobiliser Hajji Muhammad Ssebuufu has highlighted the role of private investment, philanthropy and accountable leadership in Uganda’s development, citing the Ruparelia family’s business and community initiatives as an example.
Ssebuufu made the remarks in Gulu, where he led a PLU delegation to pay tribute to the late Rajiv Ruparelia during a memorial motorsport event held in his honour.
He commended the Ruparelia family for its contribution to the economy through investments across various sectors and charitable initiatives aimed at supporting communities.
Ssebuufu particularly recognised the Ruparelia Foundation for its community support programmes, noting that businesses can make a broader contribution to society by complementing commercial activities with initiatives that improve people’s welfare.
The gathering also celebrated Rajiv’s passion for motorsport and reflected on efforts to preserve his legacy through events that bring together members of the motorsport and wider community.
Rajiv, the son of businessman Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, died in a road crash in May 2025 at the age of 35. He was a rally driver and patron of the Central Motor Club.
Since his death, members of Uganda’s motorsport fraternity have continued to organise activities in his memory, celebrating his involvement in the sport and the legacy he left behind.
During the Gulu event, Ssebuufu also commended President Yoweri Museveni for what he described as an investment-friendly environment that enables businesses to establish, expand and contribute to national development.
He said a supportive business climate can encourage private-sector growth, create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activity, with benefits extending beyond individual enterprises.
Ssebuufu added that the contribution of businesses should not be measured solely by commercial success but also by their commitment to philanthropy and community development.
He further commended PLU Chairman Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Secretary General Fadil Twalla and Member of Parliament David Kabanda for their efforts to promote the fight against corruption.
According to Ssebuufu, accountability and responsible leadership are important in ensuring that public resources are properly managed and reach their intended beneficiaries.
His remarks linked the commemoration of Rajiv Ruparelia with broader discussions about the role of private investment, charitable giving and accountability in Uganda’s development.
The PLU delegation’s visit brought together political and motorsport interests to remember Rajiv while recognising the Ruparelia family’s business investments and philanthropic activities.