Remembering Rajiv Ruparelia (January 2, 1990 – May 3, 2025)

By James Kabengwa.

KAMPALA. Ugandans woke up to a wave of sorrow on Saturday with the heartbreaking news of the sudden death of Rajiv Ruparelia, who passed away in a tragic road accident.

His demise has left a deep wound not just in his family, but in the hearts of many Ugandans who admired him as a visionary leader, a kind soul, and a man who carried a bright torch for his country’s future.

Police said a vehicle, a Nissan GTR registered UAT 638L that Rajiv was driving heading from Kajjansi to Munyonyo lost control after hitting temporary barriers installed at the roundabout section of the flyover, towards Busabala, causing an accident.

The vehicle overturned and caught fire, according to police. Rajiv died on the spot.

Rajiv, born on January 2, 1990, was not just the son of Sudhir Ruparelia—one of Africa’s most accomplished businessmen—he was a man who chose not to rely on the comfort of his family’s name.

Instead, he stepped into the world with humility, determination, and a desire to make a mark of his own.

As the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Rajiv led with courage, intellect, and deep compassion for people.

He believed in building from the ground up. He learned the ropes of business by walking through every corner of it himself.

His motto, “Fortune favors the bold, but innovation favors the brave,” spoke not only of his drive but of his fearless approach to leadership.

Rajiv had a special gift—he made those around him feel seen, heard, and valued. He believed that the success of a business was measured not just in profits, but in how many lives it touched.

“When we empower people, we empower nations,” he told me when we met in early 2023. This was not just a phrase for him—it was his purpose.

Under his leadership, the Ruparelia Group grew in new and inspiring directions. From real estate to education, from hospitality to agriculture, his work impacted thousands of Ugandans.

One of his proudest achievements was guiding the Speke Resort Munyonyo into becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated destinations. It hosts global events and put Uganda firmly on the map as a world-class tourism destination.

Rajiv also poured his heart into education. At Victoria University, he championed innovation and student-centered learning, transforming the institution into a place where dreams could take flight.

“We don’t just build walls,” he once said during an interview with Watchdog. “We build futures.” It was never just about structures—it was about the lives and possibilities that filled them.

Beyond business, Rajiv cared deeply about the environment. He understood that progress should never come at the cost of our planet. Projects like the Kampala Kingdom Mall were designed with green technology, balancing beauty and sustainability. But his family has often faced criticism for destroying the environment by dumping into Lake Victoria and swamps.

With his usual touch of humor, he once said, “I want my children to inherit a business, not just a parking lot.” But in those light words was a heavy truth—he wanted a better world for future generations.

He was also a man of passion and adrenaline. As a rally driver, Rajiv brought motorsport into the national spotlight.

He didn’t just race for fun—he raced to raise the profile of the sport and to inspire young Ugandans to aim higher, drive harder, and never give up.

“Rallying teaches you control in chaos,” he said adding, “And sometimes, business feels the same way.”

Today, Uganda has lost more than a businessman but a son, a brother, a friend, and a leader whose legacy will echo across generations.

Rajiv Ruparelia was a rare soul—bold in vision, kind in heart, and unwavering in purpose. He believed in the power of people and the promise of tomorrow.

As we say goodbye, we hold on to the lessons he left us: to live boldly, to care deeply, and to build not just for ourselves, but for others.