The Ruparelia Empire: 10 Companies Owned By Uganda’s Richest Man

KAMPALA – Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, known throughout Uganda’s business circles as the ‘Landlord of Kampala,’ maintains his position as the country’s wealthiest individual. His business empire spans multiple sectors that form crucial parts of Uganda’s economy.

The billionaire first gained international recognition when he became the first East African to appear on Forbes’ list of global billionaires. His business journey faced a major setback in 2016 when regulators took over Crane Bank, though the Supreme Court later returned it to his control in 2022. This bank represented just one part of his vast business interests.

Today, Ruparelia’s companies continue to dominate Uganda’s hospitality, education, real estate and agricultural sectors. His properties include some of Kampala’s most luxurious hotels, high-end apartment complexes, and premium resorts, alongside several other successful ventures that generate massive annual revenues.

Here are 10 key companies that form the foundation of Ruparelia’s business empire:

1. Speke Group
   The umbrella organization for all of Ruparelia’s hospitality businesses, operating luxury hotels including Kabira Country Club, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Speke Hotel, Forest Cottages, and Dolphin Suites in Bugolobi.
2. Crane Management Services
   Established in 1996, this company manages real estate properties for both Ruparelia’s portfolio and outside clients. Services include property marketing, leasing and consultancy across major Ugandan cities.
3. Premier Roses Limited
   Uganda’s largest exporter of roses, controlling 40% of the country’s flower export market. The Entebbe-based operation grows more than 10 rose varieties across 12 hectares using hydroponic systems.
4. Goldstar Insurance Company
   A leading insurance provider offering comprehensive coverage solutions for businesses, government agencies and individual clients throughout Uganda.
5. Kampala International School Uganda (KISU)
   Founded in 1993, this prestigious international school in Bukoto serves students from age 2 through 18 with world-class educational facilities.
6. Kampala Parents School
   Acquired in 2004, this top-performing private primary school in Nakawa Division has built an outstanding reputation for academic excellence.
7. Victoria University Kampala
   Ruparelia took over this institution in 2013 and has developed it into one of Uganda’s fastest-growing private universities, offering diverse degree programs.
8. Premier Recruitment Limited
   A specialized agency that places Ugandan workers in both domestic and international jobs, particularly in hospitality, security and construction sectors.
9. Sanyu FM 88.2
   One of Uganda’s pioneering private radio stations, maintaining strong popularity among urban listeners with its contemporary music programming.
10. VCON Construction Uganda
    A major construction firm handling large-scale building projects and infrastructure development for both public and private sector clients.

Economic Impact
Together, these companies:

• Employ thousands of Ugandans across various sectors
• Generate substantial revenue streams
• Maintain Ruparelia’s position as a dominant force in Uganda’s economy

Future Outlook
Despite past challenges, Ruparelia’s diversified business portfolio continues to show strong performance as Uganda’s economy grows. Industry analysts note his companies remain well-positioned for future expansion.

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