Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the billionaire businessman and founder of the Ruparelia Group, and his daughter, Sheena Ruparelia, will be among the distinguished honorees at the 39th Victory Day Anniversary of the National Resistance Movement (NRM/A) on January 26, 2025. This prestigious event, held at the National Teacher’s College in Mubende District, will celebrate their monumental contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic growth.
Recognising Impact and Legacy
Under the theme, “39 Years of NRM/A: Salutation to Those Who Re-sanctified Our Homeland,” the Ruparelias will receive medals highlighting their significant role in the country’s economic and infrastructural development. Among their many achievements, the Ruparelias were instrumental in preparing Uganda to host the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+China summits. Their exemplary management of the Speke Resort Munyonyo Convention Centre earned Uganda global acclaim as a destination for major international events.
This accolade adds to Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s long list of recognitions, including the Golden Jubilee Presidential Medal awarded by President Yoweri Museveni in 2013 for his unparalleled contributions to Uganda’s business and industrial landscape. From a displaced youth with $25,000 in savings to the founder of a $1.1 billion conglomerate, his journey embodies resilience and visionary leadership.
Sheena Ruparelia: Continuing the Legacy
Sheena Ruparelia, a Director at the Ruparelia Group, has closely followed in her father’s entrepreneurial footsteps. Educated at London’s City University, Sheena has been pivotal in driving the group’s success in real estate, tourism, and hospitality.
As a Director at the Ruparelia Group, she has contributed to the growth and diversification of one of Uganda’s leading conglomerates.
“My primary focus is overseeing the group’s hospitality and real estate divisions under the guidance of our Chairman, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, and fellow directors. Since January 2017, I have been leading the operations and renovation of our iconic properties, such as Speke Resort, Kabira Country Club, and various other developments. Additionally, I have played a key role in the design and development of Speke Apartments Kitante, Tagore Living, Bukoto Living, and Windsor House,” she told the CEO East Africa Magazine in an interview.
Since January 2017, she has been leading the operations and renovation of the Group’s iconic properties, such as Speke Resort, Kabira Country Club, and various other developments. Additionally, she has played a key role in the design and development of Speke Apartments Kitante, Tagore Living, Bukoto Living, and Windsor House.
“One of my proudest achievements has been contributing to the construction of the Speke Resort Convention Centre, where my key role was to coordinate the project from design and procurement to implementation, working alongside a team of talented consultants and contractors. This state-of-the-art facility has been pivotal in positioning Uganda as a global destination for high-profile international events, including the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+China summits. My role required me to spend six months on-site, overseeing every detail to ensure the project’s timely and successful completion. Seeing the centre come to life and contribute to Uganda’s global image has been deeply fulfilling,” she narrates.
Beyond her ongoing responsibilities in operations and marketing, she is also actively involved in developing major Group construction projects, such as the 600-bedroom expansion of Kabira Country Club, Phase 1 of Pearl Business Park, Paradise Island Resort, One10 Apartments for sale, Vista Naguru Apartments, 48 Apartments in Naguru, and the Pool Pavilion—an extension of the Speke Resort Conference facilities.
Beyond business, Sheena champions philanthropic initiatives through the Ruparelia Foundation, focusing on education, women’s empowerment, and community development. Her contributions inspire future generations of Ugandan leaders, particularly women, to participate actively in the nation’s progress.
A Family of Visionaries
Dr. Ruparelia has built the Ruparelia Group into Uganda’s largest business empire, spanning financial services, real estate, education, and agriculture. His philanthropic efforts, coupled with a focus on creating opportunities for Ugandans, underscore his commitment to the country. With over 8,000 employees and significant investments in education, hospitality, and environmental conservation, the Ruparelia Group continues to be a cornerstone of Uganda’s socio-economic framework.
This recognition at the Victory Day Anniversary further cements the Ruparelias’ legacy as key contributors to Uganda’s resurgence on the global stage. Their unwavering commitment to innovation and community impact remains a beacon of inspiration, resonating with the event’s overarching theme of national renewal and progress.