Published on 14/10/2025
Gulu City Council has unveiled plans to name one of its key roads in memory of the late businessman and motorsport icon Rajiv Ruparelia, recognizing his significant role in promoting sports tourism and community development in Uganda.
The proposal was made during a special council meeting held on Saturday, shortly after the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Rally, which attracted thousands of motorsport fans to the northern city.
The rally—part of the 2025 National Rally Championship—was organized by the Central Motor Club (CMC) in Rajiv’s remembrance, following his untimely death in May this year.
Gulu City Mayor Alfred Okwonga revealed that the planned “Rajiv Ruparelia Road” will be situated near Pece Stadium, where sections of the rally took place. He explained that the initiative symbolizes the city’s appreciation for the Ruparelia Foundation’s ongoing contributions to youth empowerment, sports, and social development across Uganda.
“Rajiv believed in building communities through sport, and his energy brought life to our city,” Okwonga noted. “Naming this road after him is a symbol of how his legacy continues to inspire northern Uganda.”
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, father to the late Rajiv, commended the City Council for the heartfelt gesture, describing it as a tribute that will keep his son’s memory alive nationwide.
“Incredibly touched and grateful to the Gulu City Council for this lasting honor. Naming a road after our dear brother, Rajiv Ruparelia, is a beautiful tribute that ensures his memory lives on in the community,” Sudhir, who attended the rally alongside his wife Jyotsna Ruparelia, remarked. “Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.”
As part of the memorial activities, organizers also launched a community initiative that included drilling a borehole and planting trees in Rajiv’s honor, recognizing his passion for uplifting communities and advancing motorsport in Uganda.
Sources revealed the council’s resolution will be forwarded to the Ministry of Local Government for official approval. Once endorsed, the new road signage will be formally unveiled in Gulu City.
The two-day rally, which marked the sixth round of the Uganda National Rally Championship (NRC), was clinched by IUEA’s Hassan Alwi, followed by Ronald Ssebuguzi in second and Aine Godfrey Kaguta (Sodo) in third place. Covering a total distance of 260.88 kilometers, the event featured stages such as Noblakes and Wobbly, and a Super Special Stage named in Rajiv’s memory.
