Businessman Sudhir Ruparelia has bought the former UAP Insurance building on Kimathi Avenue in Kampala’s central business district, according to a report published on 5 October. The property is a recognised address in the city’s commercial area, but the purchase price and the buyer’s plans for the building have not been publicly disclosed.

The building previously housed UAP Insurance’s headquarters before the insurer relocated to Nakawa Business Park. The property has also been linked to the early development of Next Media, which has said it started in a small apartment in the building before moving to its base in Naguru.

The acquisition adds to Ruparelia’s portfolio of Kampala properties. His business interests include Kingdom Kampala, Pearl Business Park and Windsor House. Other property acquisitions associated with his business interests include Simbamanyo House, later renamed Gender and Labour House, and Lotis Towers, renamed Arie Towers after its acquisition.

The future of the Kimathi Avenue building is not yet clear. There has been no public confirmation of a refurbishment, redevelopment, new tenant or change of use. Any suggestion that construction or a new commercial project is already under way would therefore be premature unless supported by a later announcement.

Kampala’s commercial property market has continued to change as businesses weigh location against modern facilities, parking and flexible office layouts. Older buildings may need upgrades to compete with newer developments, while central locations can remain attractive because of access to institutions, services and transport links.

The purchase is a separate property development from the legal dispute over Crane Bank. Although Ruparelia remains involved in litigation concerning the bank’s 2016 takeover and subsequent transfer of selected assets and liabilities, that case does not establish what he intends to do with the Kimathi Avenue building. Further details about the property will depend on announcements from the owner.

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