Published on 07/04/2025
For decades, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has been the face of one of East Africa’s most prominent business empires. But as the billionaire businessman continues to solidify his legacy, a new generation of leaders is quietly stepping into the spotlight — his children.
Under the umbrella of the Ruparelia Group, which spans sectors from real estate and hospitality to education and finance, the Ruparelia family is not just preserving their patriarch’s achievements — they’re expanding them.
Groomed for Greatness
At the heart of this generational shift is Rajiv Ruparelia, the Group’s Managing Director. Educated in the United Kingdom and established by years of close mentorship under his father, Rajiv has been instrumental in modernizing operations, introducing tech-driven efficiency and driving the group’s continued expansion.
“Rajiv has the fire, he understands both the legacy and the future. He’s not afraid to take bold steps.” revealed one of the senior executives within the group.
Under his watch, several key projects including the growth of the Speke Group of Hotels, multibillion buildings have accelerated, bringing a youthful energy to the Group’s traditional strengths.
A Family of Visionaries
But it’s not just Rajiv. Other members of the Ruparelia family are also actively shaping the future of the conglomerate. Meera Ruparelia, who has remained largely behind the scenes, is noted for her role in corporate governance and community engagement. The family’s commitment to philanthropy, education, and environmental responsibility has grown under her influence.
Meanwhile, Sheena Ruparelia has also taken up a growing role in the business, particularly in the education and hospitality sectors, helping to maintain high standards across the Group’s portfolio.
Notably, Sheena Ruparelia supervised the construction of the iconic Speke Resort Convention Centre which hosted the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+China summits held in Uganda last year.
She is widely praised for her unwavering dedication and meticulous project management as her leadership ensured the facility met world-class standards, earning commendation from international delegates.
Legacy in Action
Institutions like Kampala Parents’ School, Kampala International School Uganda (KISU), and Victoria University have seen new investments and innovation, all aimed at keeping the Ruparelia brand at the top of Uganda’s private education sector.
The hospitality arm has also expanded significantly, with new developments across Uganda and plans to venture into regional tourism markets — a vision being charted by the next generation.
Despite their growing roles, the children continue to operate under the watchful eye of Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, who remains a hands-on chairman. Insiders describe the dynamic as “collaborative, not controlling,” with Sudhir offering guidance while allowing room for independent leadership.
Eyes on the Future
With the Ruparelia Group now valued at over $1.2 billion, the next chapter of the family’s story is already being written — one that blends tradition with innovation and legacy with ambition.
Business analysts say the Group’s smooth generational transition is a rare success story in a region where many family empires struggle beyond the founder’s tenure.
Dr Sudhir has built more than a business, he has built a structure that can survive and thrive through generations and from what we’re seeing, the next generation is ready to take on the mantle.
