Published on 08/09/2025
Uganda’s tourism and hospitality landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past three decades, and at the centre of this change is Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the business magnate whose Speke Group of Hotels has redefined what luxury means in the Pearl of Africa.
From the shores of Lake Victoria to the heart of Kampala, Dr Sudhir’s portfolio of hotels and resorts has blended global standards with a distinctly Ugandan flair, elevating the country’s status as both a leisure destination and a hub for business tourism.
Speke Resort Munyonyo: A World-Class Landmark
At the heart of this success are the remarkable Speke Resort Munyonyo and Speke Resort Munyonyo Convention Centre, the crown jewels of the group. Known for their expansive lakeside views, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and elegant accommodation, the resort has become synonymous with world-class hospitality.
The resort’s rise to prominence was solidified when it hosted the 2007 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), a turning point that positioned Uganda as a serious player in the global hospitality and conferencing space.
In January 2024, the Convention Centre further cemented its reputation by hosting the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit and the 3rd South Summit of the G77 + China. These back-to-back international gatherings brought together heads of state, global leaders, and diplomats from more than 100 countries, firmly establishing Munyonyo as the epicenter of Uganda’s global diplomacy and conference tourism.
Since then, Munyonyo has remained the go-to venue for international summits, presidential retreats, and high-level business forums.
Boosting Uganda’s Global Profile
Sudhir’s vision has been clear: Uganda should not only be seen as a destination for wildlife safaris and adventure but also as a serious contender for international conferences, leisure, and luxury tourism. His hotels have consistently hosted global delegations, multinational corporate events, and regional summits, projecting an image of Uganda as both modern and welcoming.
Most recently, the completion of a 3,800-seater convention centre at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort in 2023 further elevated Uganda’s competitiveness. Delivered in just one year despite post-pandemic challenges, the facility includes 16 breakout rooms and cutting-edge amenities, marking Uganda’s entry into the league of world-class convention destinations.
The Ugandan Touch
While the Speke Group reflects global luxury, its hallmark remains authentic, from warm service rooted in Ugandan hospitality traditions to culinary experiences that celebrate both local and international cuisine, the hotels embody what Sudhir often emphasizes: “Luxury with a Ugandan soul.”
This approach has resonated not only with foreign visitors but also with Ugandans, who increasingly see Speke hotels as venues for weddings, family celebrations, birthdays, and corporate functions.
Driving Economic Impact
Beyond luxury, the impact of Sudhir’s hospitality empire is deeply economic. The Speke Group directly employs thousands of Ugandans and indirectly supports many more through supply chains in agriculture, transport, crafts, and entertainment. The steady flow of international visitors also translates into foreign exchange earnings and greater visibility for Uganda’s tourism brand.
According to Dr. Ruparelia, the hospitality sector is more than a business, it is a platform to tell Uganda’s story. By merging local culture with international standards, he has created destinations that showcase the country’s potential and inspire confidence in its future as a global tourism and investment hub.
