Rajiv Ruparelia: Uganda mourns youthful entrepreneur
Rajiv aged 35 has been described as a visionary sportsman and philanthropist by the CEO Magazine, a business news publication.
Rajiv Ruparelia has been described as an accomplished entrepreneur with a big heart for humanity. (File photos)
By Prossy Nandudu
Journalists @New Vision
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Following the death of Rajiv Ruparelia which occurred in the wee hours of Saturday morning, tributes from different sections of the public continue to come in.
According to Uganda Police, Rajiv was involved in an accident along the Expressway on his way from Kajjansi to Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Both Police and family reported that his car struck a temporary pavement and overturned, leading to his untimely death.
Rajiv Ruparelia (right) with his father Sudhir Ruparelia.
Rajiv aged 35 has been described as a visionary sportsman and philanthropist by the CEO Magazine, a business news publication.
Rajiv worked closely with his father, Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, to expand the Ruparelia Group, one of the most influential business empires in Uganda and East Africa.
"He created jobs, empowered youth, and gave back generously. His sudden passing leaves a void—but his legacy will shape future generations,” reads a tribute in CEO magazine.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa described the deceased as an accomplished entrepreneur with a big heart for humanity.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa described the deceased as an accomplished entrepreneur with a big heart for humanity.
“It is so disheartening to learn of Rajiv Ruparelia’s death in a fatal accident last night. It is hard to comprehend! He was full of life and loved this country with all his heart. My condolences to Sudhir and Jyotsna Ruparelia on this painful loss. May you be granted the strength to overcome the grief and pain this death has caused your family,” Tayebwa said through his X handle.
Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikiro of Buganda extended his sympathies to Dr Sudhir Ruparelia upon the tragic and untimely passing of his beloved son, Rajiv Ruparelia.
“This is a heartbreaking loss. May the Almighty grant your strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time, and may He receive the soul of the departed with mercy and grace,” Mayiga posted on Social media X.
Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikiro of Buganda (center) with Businessman Godfrey Kirumira (right).
On behalf of the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), Isa Sekito the spokesperson of the association described the deceased as one who has been key in creating employment for the youth, but also driving the sector.
He has been a call away, added Sekito in an interview with Bukedde TV.
Pastor Martin Sempa also sent his condolences to the Sudhir family, adding that the death of a first-born son is a devastating loss.
Robert Kyagulanyi, the President of the National Unity Platform also sent his condolences to the Sudhir family.
“Extremely shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia. He was a humble, kind, and generous young man. My sincere thoughts and condolences go out to the family of Sudhir Ruparelia, the Ugandan business community, and everyone whose life Rajiv touched. May his soul rest in peace,” Kyagulanyi tweeted.
Buhweju county Member of Parliament Francis Mwijukye wrote: It was with shock that I learnt of the tragic death of Rajiv Ruparelia in an accident. Such a young & enterprising soul wouldn't have been lost, had it not been contractors who don't prioritize the safety of people. My condolences to Dr Sudhir Ruparelia. May the soul of Rajiv RIP!
Sudhir Ruparelia (right) and his son Rajiv Ruparelia.
Dr Stella Nyanzi, former lecturer at Makerere University now based in the diaspora commented that Rajiv allowed her to pay school fees for her children in installments until they completed.
“How terrible, the news of the passing of Rajiv Ruparelia in a nasty traffic accident this morning. He was very kind to my children, when I was struggling to pay school fees at Kampala Parents School. I was allowed to pay slowly in installments until I fully paid up. Kitalo nnyo,” Nyanzi commented.
From the entertainment industry, Ssalongo Kasule Douglas Benda had this to say: The film fraternity mourns the passing of Mr Rajiv Ruparelia.
Rajiv supported season 2 of the hit TV drama series jdc series (Junior Drama Club) by allowing the show to be shot at Kampala Parents School and those who followed the show will appreciate the beautiful school location. Probably a lot more support was coming from him in future.
Media manager Joseph Beyanga aka Joe Walker called on the Ministry of Works and Transport Gen Katumba Wamala to come up with a road transport system that focuses on the safety of the users.
“We are tired of losing lives in incidents that could have been avoided or prevented,” he said.
Who was Rajiv Ruparelia
Rajiv Ruparelia has been the managing director of Ruparelia Group. Just like his father Dr Ruparelia, Rajiv was born in Uganda on January 2, 1990.
He was married to Naiya Khagram Ruparelia, the mother of his three-year-old daughter.
A graduate of Financial Management from Regents College London, Rajiv manages several family businesses.
At the time of his death, he was the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group of more than 10 companies. The conglomerate major operations cover sectors including:
Real estate
Hospitality
Education
Finance
Insurance
Media
Floriculture
Security
Freight and cargo
Civil Engineering and Construction
Whereas he was a busy man, Rajiv would take time off for leisure activities which included motorsports.
He was a renowned rally driver who competed in several local rally championships.
His fleet included what has become the infamous Nissan GT-R Reg. No UAT 638L, which he was driving at the time he crashed to death on Saturday, May 3.