Kampala businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most influential figures in Uganda’s private sector. On September 24, he was the Guest of Honor at the “Meet the CEO” event hosted by the French Chamber of Commerce Uganda (FCCU) at Kabira Country Club. The evening also marked the first anniversary of the chamber’s presence in Uganda, a milestone that brought together business leaders, diplomats, and investors.
The FCCU used the occasion to celebrate one year of fostering partnerships between French and Ugandan companies. It was a night of speeches, networking, and reflection on achievements, but it was Dr. Ruparelia’s presence and message that stood out. Known as Uganda’s wealthiest businessman, he was invited to share his entrepreneurial journey, one that has become an inspiration across the region.
In his address, Sudhir spoke about his rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of Uganda’s leading investors and a consistent top taxpayer. His story of resilience, risk-taking, and long-term vision drew applause from the audience. For many in the room, his journey symbolized what is possible when determination meets opportunity. His businesses, which span real estate, education, hospitality, and finance, are now pillars of Uganda’s economy.
The French Chamber, through its Vice President Jean-Philippe Bittencourt, praised Sudhir for supporting platforms that encourage cross-border collaboration. Bittencourt noted that the chamber had achieved remarkable growth in just one year, but emphasized that having role models like Ruparelia was critical to inspiring both French and Ugandan entrepreneurs to aim higher.
The event was also graced by the French Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Véronique Leroy, who spoke about Uganda’s untapped potential. She called on businesses to “make good noise” about the country’s opportunities in trade, tourism, and investment. Her remarks highlighted the growing importance of Uganda on the international stage, particularly as European companies explore new markets in Africa.
Kabira Country Club, part of the Ruparelia Group, provided the perfect setting for the celebration. The hotel has become a symbol of the group’s commitment to offering world-class facilities within Uganda, and hosting the chamber’s first anniversary at the venue was itself a statement of Sudhir’s influence in the business community.
Beyond the celebrations, the event also underscored the chamber’s commitment to building a bridge between French investors and Ugandan entrepreneurs. Over the past year, FCCU has worked to connect small and large businesses, promote trade opportunities, and encourage knowledge-sharing across borders. Many attendees agreed that having figures like Sudhir Ruparelia actively participating gives such initiatives both credibility and momentum.
For Uganda, Sudhir remains more than just a businessman. His journey is often described as a story of national pride. From starting small trading ventures in his youth, he built an empire that today employs thousands and contributes significantly to government revenues. His presence at the FCCU anniversary was not just symbolic but a reminder that Uganda’s most successful entrepreneurs are ready to mentor, share, and guide the next generation.
As the night closed, members of the chamber expressed optimism about the next chapter. With Uganda positioning itself as an investment hub in East Africa, the collaboration between local giants like the Ruparelia Group and international partners like FCCU could unlock new opportunities. For many in attendance, the highlight of the night was hearing from a man who has walked the path and continues to shape the country’s economic future.
The French Chamber of Commerce Uganda may only be a year old, but with voices like Sudhir’s reinforcing the message of resilience and vision, its impact is already being felt.
