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aBi Finance, UIBFS launch ESG training program for small financial institutions

By
Simon Kabayo
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Participants at the aBi Finance in partnership with the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS).

aBi Finance in partnership with the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS) have commenced an extensive training program to equip smaller financial institutions across Uganda with essential Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) skills.

The initiative, the first of 18 planned sessions, kicked off at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala on Monday, 5. The program targets Tier 4 financial institutions, which currently operate without a specific ESG framework unlike their larger counterparts regulated by the Bank of Uganda.

Noah Owomugisha, Head of Impact and Sustainability at aBi Finance, stressed the urgency of addressing ESG factors, citing climate-related losses, loan defaults linked to environmental changes, and the impact of artificial intelligence as pressing concerns.

“ESG and sustainability are not some distant concern,” Owomugisha said. “You are already experiencing the impacts – losses due to climate-related events, bad loan portfolios affected by environmental changes, and even job security concerns related to AI. These are real issues we need to address.”

aBi Finance offers lines of credit, guarantees on agricultural loans, and comprehensive capacity building. The current nationwide engagement focuses on this capacity-building arm. The program will cover topics including supporting branch expansion into unbanked areas like refugee settlements, promoting social inclusion, ensuring good governance to minimize loan defaults, and addressing environmental sustainability.

Owomugisha highlighted the inclusion of media representatives in the training. “Our capacity building efforts are comprehensive,” he said. “For example, if you identify unbanked but critical populations, such as refugees, we can discuss supporting your branch expansion into those areas. We also train your staff on aspects beyond basic credit, including social inclusion, good governance to minimize loan defaults, and the critical issue of environmental sustainability in light of climate change. Our goal is to ensure responsible and impactful financing.”

Moses Bwire, an Investment Manager overseeing Green Growth and Business Development Services at aBi Finance Limited, emphasized the training’s core objective.

“The core idea of ESG is to ensure that as financial institutions develop and offer products, they encourage environmental protection,” Bwire told reporters. “Sustainability, in this context, means that as financial institutions generate profits, they must also prioritize the well-being of the environment, the people they serve, and ensure sound governance practices.”

Bwire noted the absence of an ESG framework for Tier 4 institutions, unlike the guidelines followed by Tier 1-3 institutions through bodies like the Uganda Bankers Association (UBA). “This training seeks to bridge a crucial knowledge gap,” he said. “We’ve identified a knowledge gap, particularly within Tier 4 institutions, which is why we’ve invited them from across the country for this training.”

Addressing financial constraints, Bwire pointed to growing interest from funders in organizations with strong sustainability credentials. He emphasized that the sessions aim to equip board and executive committee members with the knowledge to embed ESG principles into their operations and governance.

Participants shared their perspectives on integrating ESG. William Atalyeba Ateenyi, Director of Operations at Wazalendo SACCO (WSACCO), said his organization has begun integrating ESG. “At Wazalendo SACCO, we’ve already taken initial steps towards ESG integration. Firstly, we included ESG as a strategic priority in our strategic plan. Secondly, we allocated 0.5% of our surplus from the last financial year, 2024, specifically for ESG implementation,” Ateenyi said, expressing confidence the training would provide valuable guidance.

Roger Mugisha Shilling, Head of Corporate Affairs at Letshego Uganda Limited, stressed the importance of ESG for long-term viability. “ESG isn’t just a reporting tool; it’s a way to future-proof our business,” Shilling said, urging wider adoption of these principles.

The comprehensive program includes 12 sessions for leaders of Tier 4 financial institutions and six for media professionals, held across Uganda from Monday through May 23. This initiative by aBi Finance and the UIBFS aims to strengthen sustainability practices in smaller financial institutions, contributing to a more robust and responsible financial sector.

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NCHE warns public on misuse of Honorary Doctorates in Uganda

By
Our Reporter
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The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has issued a warning against the misuse and misrepresentation of honorary doctorates, cautioning that these titles are not academic qualifications and should not be used as such in professional or academic contexts.

In an official press release by NCHE Chairperson Prof. Joy C. Kwesiga, the Council expressed concern over a growing trend where individuals who have received honorary degrees both locally and from abroad use the title “Doctor” in public, professional and academic settings misleading others about their credentials.

“An honorary award (Honoris Causa) is not an academic award and therefore cannot be used for academic, professional or work-related purposes,” said Prof. Kwesiga.

Prof. Kwesiga“Recipients and the public must understand the distinction between ceremonial recognition and earned academic qualifications.”

The Council clarified that only accredited public universities in Uganda are authorized to confer honorary doctorates and even then only under specific categories. These include Doctor of Laws for contributions to public service, Doctor of Letters for achievements in the humanities and Doctor of Science for accomplishments in scientific fields.

NCHE further noted that any honorary degrees awarded by foreign institutions must be evaluated and verified before being recognized in Uganda.

Prof. Kwesiga stressed that anyone receiving an honorary doctorate must clearly indicate the nature of the award.

“A holder of an honorary degree shall be required to indicate in the title that the award referred to is honorary and not academic. For example, Daniel Musheeke, LLD (Hon. Causa), or DLitt (Hon. Causa),” she stated.

She went on to caution against referring to honorary recipients as “Doctor,” emphasizing that this misrepresentation is misleading.

“Members of the academia, the public and media should not address a recipient of an honorary degree as ‘Doctor’ unless they hold an earned academic doctorate,” Prof. Kwesiga warned.

The Council called on higher education institutions, the media and the general public to adhere to these guidelines, urging, “All higher education stakeholders and the general public are advised to adhere to the above guidance to avoid embarrassment.

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Museveni, gov’t leaders pay heartfelt tributes to Sudhir’s son, Rajiv Ruparelia

By
Our Reporter
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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other Ugandan leaders on Tuesday joined the Ruparelia family to offer tributes to Rajiv Ruparelia, the 35-year-old son of city tycoon, Sudhir Ruparelia, who died in a motor accident.

President Museveni, through Speaker of Parliament Anita Among joined the Ruparelia family, national leaders and hundreds of mourners in paying tribute to a man many described as generous, visionary and full of life whose contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic sector were fundamental.

The cremation ceremony, held at the Hindu Crematorium in Lugogo, followed a vigil at the Ruparelia residence in the upscale Kololo neighborhood. Here, top government officials, renowned business figures, members of the diplomatic corps and close friends attested to the widespread respect and affection for the young entrepreneur.

The president lauded his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to the country’s progress.

“The death of Rajiv Ruparelia has robbed this country of his contribution to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, both in the present and in the future,” President Museveni’s statement read.

He further emphasized Rajiv’s renowned generosity and extended gratitude to the Ruparelia family for their pivotal role in the resurgence of Uganda’s private sector, particularly following the government’s invitation to the Asian community to return and invest.

Speaking as a personal friend of the deceased, Among recognized Rajiv as “a friend to everybody, irrespective of age or status… a mentor remembered for his humility, generosity and kindness.

Among also offered unwavering support to Sudhir Ruparelia and wife during their time of grief and expressed hope that Rajiv’s legacy would endure.

Former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi added his voice to the chorus of tributes, portraying Rajiv as more than just a successful businessman. He described him as “a devoted son, a loving husband and father, and a friend to many,” whose “vision and drive inspired everyone around him, and his kindness and generosity touched countless lives.”

In an emotional eulogy, Sudhir Ruparelia, the fountain of the family, spoke of his profound personal loss and the enduring legacy of his only son.

He described Rajiv as a “rare and remarkable soul” whose 35 years were filled with purpose and vibrant energy. He highlighted Rajiv’s deep empathy and his quiet yet impactful philanthropic endeavors, particularly his steadfast commitment to supporting the education of underprivileged children.

He also shared cherished personal anecdotes, including fond memories from Rajiv’s childhood and their shared passion for fishing in Lake Victoria. Reflecting on Rajiv’s love for motorsport, Sudhir recalled his concerns for his son’s safety.

“Rest in eternal peace, my son. You will never be forgotten,” Sudhir eulogized.

Rajiv’s mother, Jyotsna Ruparelia, offered a deeply personal and tearful tribute, reflecting on his independent nature and the loving bond they shared. She recalled moments from his childhood and expressed her heartache at not being with him on his final night. She vowed to care for Rajiv’s daughter, Inara—whom she called his greatest love—and promised to honor his dream of building a tower in her name.

Recounting memories of his childhood and youthful exuberance, her voice cracked with emotion as she expressed a heartfelt wish to have been with him on his final Friday night. Above all, she pledged to honor his memory by caring for his daughter, Inara, whom she described as his “greatest love,” and by fulfilling his wish to build a tower in her name.

Rajiv’s sisters, Meera and Sheena Ruparelia, offered a dual perspective on their brother, painting a picture of a mischievous yet deeply loving sibling. Meera remembered him as a protector and a source of quiet strength during challenging times, while Sheena fondly recalled their childhood adventures and his infectious zest for life. Both sisters emphasized Rajiv’s boundless generosity and his unwavering loyalty to his family, particularly his deep affection for his nieces and nephews.

Rajiv’s widow, Naiya Ruparelia said that Rajiv was her “first real love,” a man whose energy and magnetic personality had profoundly shaped her life. She described the complex yet deeply real bond they shared and his ability to fill a room with joy. Her most tender words were reserved for Rajiv’s role as a father to their daughter, Inara, whom she described as the center of his world. Naiya vowed to ensure that Inara carries forward her father’s spirit, his boldness and his inherent goodness.

Under his leadership as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Rajiv Ruparelia had many achievements that contributed much to Uganda’s economy. The leadership ranged from real estate, education (notably the expansion of Victoria University), hospitality, agriculture, recruitment and media experienced substantial growth. His role in expanding Victoria University’s enrollment and championing scholarships for underprivileged students was particularly noted. Furthermore, his leadership at Premier Recruitment Ltd facilitated thousands of job placements, predominantly for young women, while his stewardship of Premier Roses Ltd helped maintain Uganda’s position as a leading flower exporter.

Beyond his business legacy, Rajiv Ruparelia was remembered as a keysportsman with a passion for rallying and a dedicated philanthropist. Through the Ruparelia Foundation, he spearheaded numerous initiatives in education, healthcare, wildlife conservation and sanitation, contributing billions of Ugandan shillings to these critical areas.

As dusk fell on Lugogo and the flames of the cremation marked Rajiv’s farewell, a nation paused to remember a man whose 35 years were filled with vision, generosity, and love. His legacy—etched in the lives he touched, the businesses he built, and the causes he championed—will continue to inspire for generations to come.

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Government Launches Mass Enrolment for National IDs

By
Our Reporter
-
A sample of the National ID

The government has officially launched the mass enrolment exercise for National Identity Cards, according to Gen. David Muhoozi, the state minister for Internal Affairs.
In August 2022, Cabinet approved the Mass Enrolment and Renewal exercise aimed at renewing approximately 15.8 million ID cards set to expire in June 2025. The initiative also targets the registration of 17.2 million Ugandans.
“I am thrilled to announce that the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is ready to begin the pilot phase of the Mass Enrolment and Renewal exercise,” the minister said. “The pilot phase will run from May 2 to May 26, 2025, to allow the Electoral Commission to complete the National Display exercise—an essential process for our democracy and sovereignty.”
The pilot phase began with the renewal of IDs for NIRA’s Board of Directors and top management of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. During this period, NIRA will register, renew, and issue IDs at selected sites in collaboration with key stakeholders.
Starting May 27, 2025, NIRA will expand operations to the parish level across all 146 administrative districts nationwide.
The minister emphasized that the registration process is free of charge for citizens seeking to acquire or renew national IDs. However, citizens requesting to change or correct their personal information will be required to pay a fee of UGX 200,000, while replacement of lost IDs will cost UGX 50,000.
In July 2024, NIRA signed a contract with Tahaluf Al Emarat Technical Solutions to procure 5,665 biometric registration kits. These were fully delivered by January 2025 and distributed across the country starting February 2025.
The procurement also included card production machines capable of printing up to 100,000 laser-engraved cards per day, data center equipment (including five racks, 80 servers, firewalls, and other communication tools), and a new National Security Information System based on the Modular Open-Source Identification Platform (MOSIP).
The upgraded system enables online pre-registration of biographical data and includes iris scanning as an additional biometric feature. Biometrics will only be captured at designated registration centers by authorized NIRA officers. The pre-registration link will be available on the NIRA website starting May 27, 2025.

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Deputy Speaker Tayebwa Urges Universities to Invest in Research, Innovation

By
Our Reporter
-

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa called on universities and institutions of higher learning to invest in research and innovation to develop solutions for Uganda and Africa’s unique challenges.
Speaking at the 5th graduation ceremony of King Ceasor University in Kampala on Monday, Tayebwa addressed the congregation, emphasizing the importance of research that benefits society and enhances university portfolios.
“Invest more in groundbreaking research and innovations because the problems we have are unique and will require unique solutions which we must develop from here,” he said.
He acknowledged that while international research funding has decreased, the Ugandan government has increased its support. He stressed that university education should be transformative, urging King Ceasor University to focus on areas that address societal needs.
“You have done your part, and I believe where the university has reached now, its growth is unstoppable,” Tayebwa said. “Let’s invest more in upholding what we have achieved in quality assurance, and we shall attract more. The moment we keep it up, very soon this university shall be the best in East Africa.”
He added that the government would support universities that complement its efforts. “Now I request you to invest more in groundbreaking research, more in innovation, because the problems we have are unique studies. And they will need unique solutions,” he said, citing China’s development of artemisinin (coartem) as a malaria treatment.
His Majesty King Ceasor Mulenga T.G., the Honorary Consul of Vietnam to Uganda and the Chancellor of King Ceasor University, called on the university to introduce a two-to-three-month certificate course in technology for all students, covering areas like artificial intelligence, quantum technology, virtual reality, and the internet of things.
“When they leave here, they should not be far away apart from the technology that is driving their sectors,” Mulenga said. “So, we request management from now onwards, from this graduation, that they put technology at the center of this training at King Ceasor University.”
A total of 280 students graduated with diplomas and degrees, including 224 degree recipients and 56 diploma recipients. Vice Chancellor Charity Basaza Mulenga highlighted the university’s commitment to gender parity and quality education.
ICT Minister and University Council Chairperson assured attendees that King Ceasor University would become a center of excellence through partnerships and new science and technology courses.
Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese Paul Ssemogerere, who opened the ceremony with a Mass, advised graduates to live lives of love and integrity and to use their education to combat corruption and injustice.
“Your degrees and certificates are wonderful blessings; the world does not need you just as professionals but as transformers of society,” he said.
Tayebwa also cautioned graduates against pursuing a “soft life,” urging them to be purpose-driven and contribute to their country. He shared his own experience of rising in government without political connections.
Mulenga encouraged graduates to become job creators, not just job seekers, and to diversify their income streams.
“There are opportunities so don’t reject them, be your own boss and don’t stick only on what you studied but diversify your income by engaging in other activities, be wealth multipliers,” he said.By Our Reporter
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa called on universities and institutions of higher learning to invest in research and innovation to develop solutions for Uganda and Africa’s unique challenges.
Speaking at the 5th graduation ceremony of King Ceasor University in Kampala on Monday, Tayebwa addressed the congregation, emphasizing the importance of research that benefits society and enhances university portfolios.
“Invest more in groundbreaking research and innovations because the problems we have are unique and will require unique solutions which we must develop from here,” he said.
He acknowledged that while international research funding has decreased, the Ugandan government has increased its support. He stressed that university education should be transformative, urging King Ceasor University to focus on areas that address societal needs.
“You have done your part, and I believe where the university has reached now, its growth is unstoppable,” Tayebwa said. “Let’s invest more in upholding what we have achieved in quality assurance, and we shall attract more. The moment we keep it up, very soon this university shall be the best in East Africa.”
He added that the government would support universities that complement its efforts. “Now I request you to invest more in groundbreaking research, more in innovation, because the problems we have are unique studies. And they will need unique solutions,” he said, citing China’s development of artemisinin (coartem) as a malaria treatment.
His Majesty King Ceasor Mulenga T.G., the Honorary Consul of Vietnam to Uganda and the Chancellor of King Ceasor University, called on the university to introduce a two-to-three-month certificate course in technology for all students, covering areas like artificial intelligence, quantum technology, virtual reality, and the internet of things.
“When they leave here, they should not be far away apart from the technology that is driving their sectors,” Mulenga said. “So, we request management from now onwards, from this graduation, that they put technology at the center of this training at King Ceasor University.”
A total of 280 students graduated with diplomas and degrees, including 224 degree recipients and 56 diploma recipients. Vice Chancellor Charity Basaza Mulenga highlighted the university’s commitment to gender parity and quality education.
ICT Minister and University Council Chairperson assured attendees that King Ceasor University would become a center of excellence through partnerships and new science and technology courses.
Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese Paul Ssemogerere, who opened the ceremony with a Mass, advised graduates to live lives of love and integrity and to use their education to combat corruption and injustice.
“Your degrees and certificates are wonderful blessings; the world does not need you just as professionals but as transformers of society,” he said.
Tayebwa also cautioned graduates against pursuing a “soft life,” urging them to be purpose-driven and contribute to their country. He shared his own experience of rising in government without political connections.
Mulenga encouraged graduates to become job creators, not just job seekers, and to diversify their income streams.
“There are opportunities so don’t reject them, be your own boss and don’t stick only on what you studied but diversify your income by engaging in other activities, be wealth multipliers,” he said.

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Rajiv Ruparelia (1990–2025): The visionary who redefined influence with integrity

By
Our Reporter
-
RIP: Rajiv Ruparelia.

Uganda is mourning the tragic loss of Rajiv Ruparelia, a business magnate, reformist leader and dedicated ally to free expression, who died on Saturday, May 3, 2025, in a car accident along the Busabala–Munyonyo road. He was 35 years old.

Born into the prominent Ruparelia family, Rajiv stood not only as the heir to his father, the city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia’s legacy but emerged as a bold and principled figure in his own right. At the time of his passing, he served as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, a diversified business empire with investments across finance, real estate, education, hospitality and agriculture.

But Rajiv was not content to simply inherit. He chose to lead.

Leadership built on merit, not inheritance

From the outset, Rajiv’s leadership style was defined by humility and modernity. He walked the streets of Kampala freely, dressed modestly often without the trappings of his status. While many of his contemporaries leaned into elitism, Rajiv was known to take boda bodas, attend grassroots events and maintain personal relationships across all social strata.

When the Crane Bank saga erupted, a highly publicized financial dispute that placed the Ruparelia family under political and legal siege it was Rajiv who took on the painstaking responsibility of countering a well-oiled misinformation campaign. At great personal risk, he gathered evidence, coordinated legal teams and emerged as the strategic face of resistance. It was a crucible moment, and one from which he walked not only vindicated but strengthened.

A Champion of education and reform

In 2019, Rajiv turned his attention to Victoria University, a struggling institution under his family’s portfolio. With characteristic energy and vision, he transformed it into one of Uganda’s most forward-looking universities, emphasizing innovation, practical learning and continental partnerships. Under his stewardship, the university’s enrollment tripled and it became a model for private higher education in East Africa.

His belief in education as a tool for empowerment was unwavering. He championed scholarships for underprivileged students and supported reforms to make university governance more transparent and responsive to student needs.

The quiet hero of Uganda’s independent media

Perhaps Rajiv’s most unspoken legacy is his support for Uganda’s online and independent media, a sector often under political pressure. In recent years, as journalists faced increasing threats ranging from arbitrary arrests to financial sabotage, Rajiv became their silent guardian.

Editors and reporters across multiple platforms attest to his swift interventions. He covered legal costs, funded emergency healthcare for injured reporters and even helped struggling outlets acquire digital tools and servers. Yet, he never asked for public recognition.

He understood that a free press isn’t a threat, it’s a safety net for democracy. He was always just a phone call away.

A legacy of grace and grounded power

Rajiv’s charisma stemmed not from his bank account, but from his authenticity. He listened more than he spoke, led without fanfare, and made loyalty his highest currency. Whether attending youth innovation camps, wedding ceremonies in rural Uganda or university graduations, he carried himself with disarming ease.

Despite his proximity to power, he never sought political office. Still, his moral influence was unmistakable. Rajiv was a voice of reason in rooms filled with ambition, a calming presence during heated boardroom debates and a believer in results over rhetoric.

A nation mourns, a generation reflects

His death is more than a family tragedy, it is a national loss. Uganda has lost one of its most promising sons: a man who used his privilege not to dominate, but to uplift; not to isolate, but to include.

He is survived by his wife Naiya, their daughter and his parents Sudhir and Mrs. Jyotsna Ruparelia. Funeral arrangements are ongoing, and a state of deep mourning has engulfed friends, business partners, university students and journalists alike.

In his passing, Uganda is reminded that greatness is not measured by how loudly one lives, but by how profoundly one touches others.

Rest in Peace, Rajiv. Your legacy will live on!

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Museveni urges NRM members to turn up for village elections tomorrow 

By
Geoffery Serugo
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President YKT Museveni.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on all members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to actively participate in the party’s internal elections scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025.

The elections, which will take place at village centres across the country, aim to verify the NRM party register and elect LCI chairperson flag-bearers and other village structure leaders.

 “I am alerting and requesting all the NRM members to go to the village centres in their respective local areas by 10am on Tuesday the 6th of May, 2025, to do two things: take part in the baraza that will verify the members of the NRM that have been registered in the NRM registers; and take part in the elections of the NRM LCI flag-bearer for LCI chairmanship and also elect the village NRM structures,” he said.

According to the President, the activities of register verification and the election of local leaders will be conducted strictly between 10am and 2pm.

“The NRM Electoral Commission will give you the details,” he added.

Museveni revealed that he will be personally participating in the verification process in Rwakitura village, while the First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni, will do the same in Ntungamo Ireenga.

“I will personally be in the Rwakitura village and Mama will be in Ntungamo Ireenga to take part in the verification of our respective NRM village registers. I will, however, not line behind any candidate for election because as chairman of the NRM, I welcome any choice of our members. I cannot and should not, therefore, take sides,” he said.

To ensure full participation by national leaders, President Museveni also announced the suspension of top government activities during the election period.

“To ensure that the leaders participate, there will be no cabinet meeting on Monday May 5, May, 2025, and I have also agreed with the Rt. Hon. Speaker that there will be no parliamentary sitting on Tuesday May 6, 2025,” the statement concluded.

The NRM village-level elections are a crucial step in strengthening the party’s grassroots structures and affirming the democratic process within Uganda’s ruling party.

After the LC1 elections, Special interest groups, including youth, persons with disabilities, and older persons, will express interest and be nominated between May 19 and 21. Their campaigns are set for May 22 and 23, and polling will be held on May 24.

 Local government structures will follow in a phased approach. Municipality and city division mayors will express interest from June 2 to 15, with nominations taking place from June 17 to 30. Campaigns for these positions will run from July 1 to 14, and voting is scheduled for July 24, 2025.

Local government councils at LC4 level, including municipality and city division councillors, will express interest between July 28 and August 4. Nominations will be held from August 5 to 9, campaigns from August 10 to 17, and polling on August 18. For LC3 councils, town councils, and municipal divisions, expressions of interest will follow the same dates, with campaigns running from August 10 to 14, and elections on August 15.

 The party’s National Conference, the highest organ of the NRM, will convene from August 22 to 25, 2025. During this conference, the party will nominate its presidential flag bearer, elect members of the national executive committee, and endorse candidates representing special interest groups.

The final part of the roadmap includes nominations by the National Electoral Commission. These will begin with NRM EC nominations from September 3 to 12. The party’s National Commission will nominate its parliamentary candidates on September 16 and 17, while the Electoral Commission will nominate presidential candidates on October 2 and 3, 2025.

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Sudhir’s son Rajiv to be cremated on Tuesday at Hindu cremation site Lugogo as family asks for privacy

By
Our Reporter
-
RIP Rajiv Ruparelia.

The programme for the final sendoff of Rajiv Ruparelia, the son to city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia is out and cremation is slated for Tuesday May 6, 2025.

In a statement released this morning, the Ruparelia family further asks for privacy during the mourning period. It says vigil will be at the Ruparelia residence in Kololo.

“It is with a deep and heavy heart that we announce the passing of our son Rajiv Ruparelia early this morning. cremation will be held at the Hindu crematorium in Lugogo at 2.30 pm, Tuesday May 6, 2025. The family asks that their privacy be respected during this tough and trying time”.

The tragic accident that occurred early hours of Saturday claimed the life of the young prominent businessman. 

Rajiv has been the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group and a son to the city mogul Sudhir Ruparelia.

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 1:54 am on May 3, 2025, at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.

According to the Uganda Police, the crash involved a high-speed Nissan GTR bearing registration number UAT 638L, which was traveling from Kajjansi towards Munyonyo.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover,” police said in a statement released on Saturday morning.

The powerful sports car reportedly overturned and caught fire upon impact. Efforts to rescue the driver were futile, as he died instantly at the scene.

“The vehicle subsequently overturned and caught fire, leading to the instant death of the driver, identified as Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia,” the police statement added.

Rajiv’s parents are inconsolable with the death of their son.  Both Sudhir and Jyotsna are seen sited in their visitor’s lounge receiving mourners but at certain interval, they are asked by their medical personnel to take a rest. Several prominent both politicians and business men and women are seen thronging the home to pay homage.

Rajiv leaves behind a wife and a daughter.

RIP/OM SHANTI

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Sudhir’s son Rajiv dies in car crash

By
Our Reporter
-

A tragic accident in the early hours of Saturday has claimed the life of prominent businessman Rajiv Ruparelia.

Rajiv has been the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group and a son to the city mogul Sudhir Ruparelia.

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 1:54 AM on May 3, 2025, at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.

According to the Uganda Police, the crash involved a high-speed Nissan GTR bearing registration number UAT 638L, which was traveling from Kajjansi towards Munyonyo.

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover,” police said in a statement released on Saturday morning.

The powerful sports car reportedly overturned and caught fire upon impact. Efforts to rescue the driver were futile, as he died instantly at the scene.

“The vehicle subsequently overturned and caught fire, leading to the instant death of the driver, identified as Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia,” the police statement added.

Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the crash. However, investigators are actively examining the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.

“The exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined; however, investigations are underway, and we will provide updates to the public as more information becomes available,” police noted.

Rajiv Ruparelia, a known figure in Uganda’s business community and managing director of the Ruparelia Group, was widely respected for his role in real estate, education, and hospitality ventures across the country.

Further updates are expected as investigations continue.

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Uganda to host 66th IFATCA conference in 2027

By
Our Reporter
-

Uganda has been selected to host the 66th International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) Conference in 2027, a significant achievement announced during the closing ceremony of the 64th IFATCA Conference in Abu Dhabi.

The decision was made following a competitive bidding process, with Uganda’s proposal presented by the Uganda Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (UGATCA) receiving overwhelming support from the international delegation.

The conference, which drew representatives from across the globe, lauded Uganda’s compelling vision and preparedness to host the prestigious event.

Ms. Helena Sjöström Falk of Sweden, President and CEO of IFATCA, officially announced Uganda as the 2027 host and congratulated UGATCA on its successful bid. She posed for a group photo with the Ugandan delegation, alongside IFATCA Deputy President Mr. Jean-François Lepage of Canada.

Hosting the IFATCA Conference is regarded as a major opportunity for Uganda’s aviation sector. It places the country on the global stage in matters of air traffic control and aviation safety, while also promising significant economic and professional benefits.

The win is not only a testament to the growing capabilities of Uganda’s aviation professionals but also an indication of the country’s rising profile in international aviation forums.

The 2027 conference is expected to draw hundreds of participants, including aviation experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, offering Uganda a platform to showcase its hospitality, infrastructure, and leadership in air traffic management.

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