Naguru residents get alternative water source in memory of Rajiv Ruparelia

KAMPALA - The residents of Naguru, who sometimes grapple with fluctuating water supply, are celebrating getting an additional source.

The Kampala city suburb residents have received a borehole in honour Rajiv Ruparelia, who died recently in a car crash. Rajiv, who was tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia's eldest son, was the director of the real estate company Living Group (TLG), which constructed the borehole.

The handover of the water source on July 11, 2025, coincided with the commissioning of apartments, which Rajiv and his siblings undertook before his death.

"We noticed many children in the area walking long distances carrying empty jerrycans in search of water," TLG managing director Ray Sakaria said.

"Carrying 20 litres, which is equal to 20kg, is not hard, especially for children. We thought of our late partner, Rajiv and how he always valued helping people. That is why we built this borehole in his memory."

According to Sakaria, the water should be free to enable everyone around to access it, and this has been agreed with local leaders to prohibit any form of charging for water.

The children of Indian origin with the children from the local community.

Gloria Nansubuga, one of the residents, expressed gratitude to the group and the entire Ruparelia Group for choosing to support their community in memory of Rajiv.

“We are so grateful for the initiative which will ensure that everybody can access water without charge,” Nansubuga said.

Sheena Ruparelia, a co-director at TLG, said: “This borehole is also a small gesture to thank the people of Naguru, who have supported us throughout the development of The Vista Naguru.”

"Not everyone has access to clean water, and this is one way we can make a difference. We hope about 2,000 residents will benefit," she said.

She added that the new apartments, are also a dedication to Rajiv, who initiated the project in 2022.

Prior to the official opening of the apartments, the family conducted prayers graced by Sudhir, alongside his wife Jyotsna and the children, to dedicate the property and intercede for the soul of Rajiv.

“This was Rajiv’s dream. Today, we honour his vision and the incredible legacy he left behind,” Sudhir said.

Sudhir said it was part of their push to grow communities around them.

“This is more than just real estate, it’s about being a good neighbour,” Sudir said.

He added, “Rajiv left us too soon, but this building will always remind us of who he was: visionary, determined, and deeply rooted in creating beauty and value,” Sheena paid tribute.