Prominent Businessman Rajiv Ruparelia Dies in Tragic Road Crash at Busabala Flyover

The Ugandan business community is in mourning following the tragic death of Rajiv Ruparelia, son of business magnate Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, in a fatal road accident early Saturday morning, May 3, 2025.

According to a statement released by the Uganda Police, the incident occurred at approximately 1:54 AM at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso district.

The crash involved a Nissan GTR sports car, registration number UAT 638L, traveling from Kajjansi toward Munyonyo.

Preliminary findings suggest that the vehicle collided with temporary road pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover, causing the driver to lose control.

The car overturned and burst into flames, leading to the instant death of Rajiv Ruparelia, the sole occupant.

Authorities have yet to establish the exact cause of the crash. Investigations are ongoing.

Who Was Rajiv Ruparelia?
Born into one of Uganda's most prominent business families, Rajiv Ruparelia was the only son of Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Group, a multi-billion-shilling conglomerate with interests spanning real estate, finance, hospitality, education, and agriculture.

Rajiv, in his late 30s, was a rising force in Uganda’s business sector. Educated in the UK, he returned to Uganda to take on an executive role in the family empire.

He served as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, where he spearheaded modernization efforts across various subsidiaries, including Meera Investments, Speke Group of Hotels, and Premier Recruitment.

Known for his youthful energy and progressive approach, Rajiv played a key role in driving digitization within the group's operations and expanding its regional footprint.

Under his leadership, several luxury developments, such as Kingdom Kampala and new Speke resorts, were launched or completed.

Rajiv was not only a businessman but also an active philanthropist. He supported several education and healthcare initiatives, particularly those aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities. Through the Ruparelia Foundation, he contributed to scholarship programs, hospital donations, and community development projects.

Rajiv had a deep love for motorsports. He was a rally enthusiast and had competed in several National Rally Championship (NRC) events under the Rajiv Rally Team, drawing large crowds and helping popularize the sport among Uganda’s youth.

The news of Rajiv’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves across the country. Social media is flooded with messages of condolence and tributes from business leaders, politicians, and members of the public.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, in a statement, said:
"Rajiv was a beacon of Uganda’s next generation of business leadership. His death is a tragic loss not just to the Ruparelia family but to the nation."

Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and family are yet to issue an official statement, but close family sources indicate funeral arrangements are underway and will be communicated soon.

Rajiv Ruparelia's passing marks a somber moment in Uganda’s corporate history, cutting short the life of a man many saw as the natural heir to one of Africa’s most successful business dynasties.