Rajiv Ruparelia, the son of renowned Ugandan business mogul Sudhir Ruparelia, tragically lost his life in a car accident early this Saturday morning, May 3, 2025. The accident occurred along the Kampala Southern Bypass highway near the Busabala flyover in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.
Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, confirmed the tragic news, revealing that at approximately 1:54 AM, a white Nissan GTR (UAT 638L) veered off the road, overturned, and caught fire. Rajiv Ruparelia was the driver, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Investigations are ongoing. The vehicle hit temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section, which caused the driver to lose control and overturn,” Owoyesigyire stated. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Rajiv Ruparelia was widely recognized for his leadership as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, one of East Africa’s largest and most diverse conglomerates. The group operates different interests, including banking, insurance, education, broadcasting, real estate, floriculture, hotels, and resorts.
He was also known for his passion for motorsports, having competed in local rally competitions since 2019. His remarkable speed and numerous wins quickly earned him a reputation in the motorsport community.
Rajiv was an active member of the assembly that governs motorsports in Uganda and served as the patron of the Central Motorsport Club (CMC).
Beyond his business and racing career, Rajiv was deeply committed to philanthropy. He played a significant role in creating employment opportunities in Uganda, with his efforts directly contributing to the creation of 300 jobs within the Ruparelia Group alone in 2016.
This loss has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s business and motorsport communities, with many remembering Rajiv for his contributions to both sectors and his dedication to improving the lives of others.
Further details on the investigation into the crash will be released as they become available.
