By Andrew Irumba Katusabe
In a historic recognition of his immense contribution to Uganda’s development, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has been awarded the Distinguished Order of the Crested Crane (Grand Officer) by the President of the Republic of Uganda. This prestigious honor was bestowed during the 39th NRM/A Victory Day Anniversary Celebrations held on 26th January 2025 in Mubende District.
The award acknowledges Dr. Ruparelia’s exceptional service, dedication, and achievements, notably his pivotal role in the rapid completion of the Speke Resort Conference Centre, which enabled Uganda to host the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+ China Summits successfully in 2024.
A Visionary Leader and Celebrated Pan-Africanist
Dr. Ruparelia’s leadership and influence extend beyond Uganda, earning him recognition as a Great Pan-African. In 2024, he was honored at the Pan African Pyramid Global Awards (PAP Global Awards 2024) as an Achiever of All Times for his visionary leadership and outstanding contributions to the African continent.
This latest accolade adds to an illustrious list of awards, including an Honorary Doctor of Laws from Uganda Pentecostal University and the Golden Jubilee Independence Medal for his remarkable impact on Uganda’s economic and social transformation.
Transforming Uganda Through Enterprise
Dr. Ruparelia is the founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Group, a conglomerate whose vast portfolio spans multiple industries, each contributing significantly to Uganda’s growth and prosperity. His investments include:
1-Real Estate and Property Development
Meera Investments: As the largest property owner in Uganda, Dr. Ruparelia has developed iconic landmarks such as:
-Crane Chambers
-Electrical Plaza
-Hardware City
-The Cube
-Kingdom Kampala Mall
2. Residential Developments: His portfolio includes premium apartments like:
– Speke Apartments (Kampala, Wampewo, and Kitante)
-Bukoto Heights
3. Commercial Spaces: Dr. Ruparelia’s properties house businesses and offices that form the backbone of Uganda’s economy.
Hospitality and Tourism
Dr. Ruparelia’s Speke Group of Hotels is a leader in Uganda’s hospitality industry, offering world-class services at properties such as:
-Speke Resort Munyonyo
-Kabira Country Club
-Forest Cottages
-Speke Hotel
-Speke Apartments
These establishments are key venues for international conferences, weddings, and leisure tourism.
Dr. Ruparelia is committed to fostering quality education through institutions such as:
– Kampala International School Uganda (KISU)
-Delhi Public School International
– Victoria University
Banking and Finance
As the former proprietor of Crane Bank, Dr. Ruparelia was instrumental in expanding financial services to underserved communities, fostering economic empowerment.
Agriculture and Floriculture
His investments in floriculture have positioned Uganda as a significant player in the global flower export market.
Entertainment and Media
Through 88.2 Sanyu FM, Dr. Ruparelia has supported Uganda’s entertainment and media industry, promoting creativity and information dissemination.
A Legacy of Nation-Building
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s achievements epitomize resilience, vision, and dedication to national development. From revolutionizing Uganda’s real estate landscape to transforming the hospitality industry and creating world-class educational institutions, his contributions have created jobs, empowered communities, and elevated Uganda’s stature globally.
As the nation celebrates its milestones on this 39th NRM/A Victory Day, Dr. Ruparelia’s honor serves as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and relentless commitment to progress. Congratulations Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia.
Also awarded is Dr.Sudhir’s daughter Sheena Ruparelia for her extra ordinary dedication she equally put in the construction of SpekeResort Munyonyo conference centre in record time. For Sheena, close buddies told our spy that she actually shifted her place of aboard from her home and started sleeping at Munyonyo till the completion of the construction. “She would be seen at night supervising workers, changing shifts with her father. If the father was around during day, you would automatically expect the daughter during night, and vise versa,” said a close source. Congratulations Dr.and family.👏👏🎉🎉🎉👏👏🎉
Enjoy Pictorial below 👇
