Kampala Uganda – Sudhir Ruparelia, Uganda’s wealthiest businessman and chairman of the Ruparelia Group, has thrown his weight behind the Asian community’s push for formal recognition as one of Uganda’s indigenous tribes.
Mr. Ruparelia, raised in Kasese, western Uganda, says the justification for such a move lies in the fact that Asians have been part of Uganda’s society for over 120 years, making up 0.001% of the population, significantly contribute to the country’s economy, with their businesses contributing up to 65 percent of the tax revenues.
He said: “We need an identity in this country just like others who migrated to Uganda and got
Sudhir: We can’t go anywhere else. So, we need an identity, even within this country, and be accepted that we are in this country for 120 years, and there is lot of Africans who have migrated here from other countries, and they get recognition. So why not us? And we contribute a lot to the economy of this country. Asians are here, 0.001% and we contribute between 60 to 65% of the revenue.
Sudhir: It’s my home. I can’t stay anywhere; I have a home in England [and) I have a home in Dubai. This will always be my first home.
Asians, particularly of Indian descent, have a long history in Uganda, dating back to the colonial era. They have been well-known for their business expertise, a legacy that continues today. However, during the rule of former President Idi Amin in the 1970s, many Asians were expelled from the country and their businesses handed over to Ugandans, most of them struggled to manage them. Despite this period of controversy, the Asian community remains a central force in Uganda’s business landscape, operating both large and medium enterprises.
It is estimated that about a 40,000 strong Indian community, that has greatly contributed to the Ugandan culture and economy live in the country today. The Indian community in Uganda has been instrumental in developing Uganda’s trade and commerce sector, with many owning businesses in the service and tourism industry, textiles, clothing, and other retail industries.
When asked about his deep connection to Uganda, Dr. Ruparelia said, “Uganda is my home, and that alone shows how much I love it. I can live anywhere, but Uganda is always my first home. I have homes in England and Dubai, but Uganda.
Ruparelia’s endorsement adds momentum to the Asian community’s long-standing quest for formal recognition.
