Dr. Sudhir, Daughter Sheena To Be Honored For Transforming Uganda’s Hospitality And Event Hosting Sector

By Gad Masereka

Kampala, (UG): Ugandan businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his daughter Sheena Ruparelia are set to be recognized by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for their outstanding contributions to Uganda’s hospitality industry, which played a crucial role in hosting last year’s Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77+China summits.

Sudhir, the chairman of the Ruparelia Group of Companies, oversaw the transformation of Speke Resort Munyonyo into a world-class venue, ensuring Uganda was well-prepared to welcome global leaders and delegates. The successful hosting of these prestigious summits positioned Uganda as a prime destination for international events.

Sheena Ruparelia, who managed the operations and logistics of the convention facilities, is being celebrated for her commitment to excellence. Her hands-on leadership during the preparation stages ensured that every detail, from infrastructure upgrades to hospitality standards, exceeded expectations, earning international praise.

President Museveni, during a press briefing earlier this week, emphasized the pivotal role of the Ruparelia family in showcasing Uganda’s potential on the global stage. He highlighted their work as a testament to Uganda’s ability to deliver high-quality facilities and services, which some delegates mistakenly believed were built by foreign companies.

To acknowledge their contributions, the President will award Sudhir and Sheena liberation medals during the upcoming national celebrations on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the National Teacher’s College in Mubende District. This year’s celebrations are themed “39 Years of NRM/A: Salutations to Those Who Re-Sanctified Our Homeland.”

The Ruparelia Group’s developments, including the construction of the Speke Convention Centre at Munyonyo, have been described as game-changing. The center now serves as a cornerstone for Uganda’s burgeoning conference tourism industry, attracting both regional and international events.

Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs, continues to make significant contributions to Uganda’s economic development. Listed by Forbes as one of Africa’s billionaires, Sudhir’s business empire spans banking, education, real estate, and hospitality.

This recognition follows a previous medal awarded to Sudhir in 2013 for his role as an industrialist and his impact on Uganda’s private sector.

The Ruparelia family’s legacy of excellence underscores the importance of private investment in national progress, inspiring other Ugandan entrepreneurs to aim higher.