Published on 07/04/2025
Best known for his billion-dollar business empire, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the chairman of Ruparelia Group has spent decades at the pinnacle of Uganda’s private sector. But beyond real estate, banking, and hospitality, there’s another side to the tycoon that’s equally impactful — his commitment to giving back to the people.
For Sudhir, Philanthropy, is not a side note to his success story, it’s a core part of his business philosophy — one that has seen thousands benefit from his quiet but consistent efforts to uplift communities across Uganda.
Giving with Purpose
Through the Ruparelia Foundation, the charitable arm of the Ruparelia Group, Sudhir has invested millions in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, disaster relief and environmental conservation.
“Business should not just be about profits — it should also be about people,” Sudhir often says.
The foundation, which was formally established in 2012, operates under the slogan “Enriching Lives”, and partners with various community groups, schools and health institutions to reach the underprivileged. From donating medical equipment to supporting the renovation of schools and donating relief, the foundation has become a pillar of hope for many.
Education at the Heart
A key focus of Sudhir’s philanthropy is education — a sector he believes is critical to national transformation. Beyond running top-tier institutions like Kampala Parents’ School, KISU, and Victoria University, the foundation regularly provides scholarships to hundreds underprivileged students and over the years, hundreds have gained access to quality education, unlocking opportunities they never imagined possible.
Supporting Health and Disaster Relief
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ruparelia Foundation stood out among corporate responders. The Group donated food, medical supplies and personal protective equipment worth millions of shillings to frontline workers and vulnerable communities.
The foundation also played a key role in supporting Mulago Hospital, Uganda Cancer Institute and several regional health centres through donations of beds, oxygen cylinders and financial contributions.
When floods hit parts of eastern and western Uganda, the foundation was among the first to respond with emergency relief supplies and support to affected families.
Youth and Environment
Beyond education and healthcare, Sudhir’s philanthropic vision extends to youth development and environmental sustainability. The Foundation sponsors sports tournaments, youth workshops and entrepreneurship expos — nurturing the next generation of thinkers and doers.
Environmental initiatives have included tree planting campaigns in urban schools and support for water and sanitation projects in underserved areas.
A Legacy of Generosity
While Sudhir prefers to keep much of his giving low-profile, his impact is felt widely in classrooms, hospitals, and communities across the country.
His children, including Rajiv Ruparelia, have also embraced the philanthropic mission, playing active roles in organizing and overseeing foundation activities, ensuring that the values of compassion and corporate responsibility live on.
For Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, success isn’t measured only in skyscrapers or hotel suites. It’s also in lives changed, dreams rekindled, and futures built from kindness and vision.
