Ugandan-Indian Community Seeks Formal Tribal Recognition Amid Economic Contributions

By Gad Masereka

Prominent Ugandan entrepreneur Sudhir Ruparelia has voiced concerns regarding the absence of formal recognition for the Indian community, despite their immense role in Uganda’s economy. Ruparelia emphasized the community’s longstanding presence in the country and urged the government to officially acknowledge them as a tribe.

Sudhir Ruparelia on Recognition

In a recent address, Ruparelia highlighted the Indian community’s contribution to Uganda, citing their over 120-year history in the country. “We are not transient; we’ve been here for generations, contributing significantly to the economy. Yet, we still face challenges in securing formal recognition,” he said.

The Ugandan-Indian community has been one of the pillars of the nation’s financial growth, accounting for an estimated 60-65% of the country’s revenue, despite representing a tiny fraction of the population. However, despite their contributions, the community is still considered foreign in legal terms.

Calls for Constitutional Amendment

The Indian Association of Uganda, along with other stakeholders, has been campaigning for official tribal recognition, a move they argue would solidify their place in Uganda’s socio-political landscape. Recognition would not only grant Ugandan-Indian children greater legal security but also address longstanding concerns regarding citizenship and national identification processes.

Mohan Rao, the chairman of the Indian Association, echoed Ruparelia’s concerns, calling for the community to be fully integrated into the legal framework of Uganda. “Recognition is not just about status, it’s about ensuring our future generations have the same rights and privileges as other Ugandans,” Rao remarked.

Historical Context and Government Response

The issue of recognition carries significant historical weight, given the 1972 expulsion of Indians under former President Idi Amin. Many Ugandan-Indians, including Ruparelia’s family, were forced into exile, only to return in the 1980s after being invited back by President Museveni.

While President Museveni has acknowledged the critical role of the Indian community in Uganda’s economy, there has yet to be a concrete step toward amending the constitution to officially recognize them as a tribe.

Sudhir’s Economic Impact

Sudhir Ruparelia, one of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals and head of the Ruparelia Group, has been instrumental in revitalizing the country’s real estate, banking, and education sectors. His success story is seen as emblematic of the wider contributions of the Indian community to Uganda’s development.