Businessman and philanthropist Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the Honorary Consul General of Nepal to Uganda, has been voted the best honorary consul general in Uganda following a three-month nationwide survey recognizing top-performing diplomats. The honor celebrates his outstanding efforts in promoting trade, tourism, and investment between Uganda and Nepal, as well as his continued contribution to Uganda’s social and economic development.
According to the survey, Ugandans credited Dr. Ruparelia for creating meaningful trade connections between the two nations and for facilitating job opportunities for Ugandans in Nepal. Many respondents described him as a “bridge between nations,” whose work has not only opened doors for business cooperation but also inspired local entrepreneurs.
Appointed by the President of Nepal, Bidhya Devi Bhandari, in February 2020, Dr. Ruparelia officially presented his credentials to then Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Sam Kutesa on March 17, 2020, marking the establishment of Nepal’s first consulate in Uganda. The consulate, located at Crane Chambers in Kampala, has since served as the center of Nepalese-Ugandan diplomacy, trade, and investment collaboration.
Over the past five years, Dr. Ruparelia has worked tirelessly to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. One of his notable achievements has been fostering cultural and community exchange through events such as the Nepal Constitution Day celebrations in Kampala, where Ugandans and Nepalese nationals came together to share traditions and celebrate friendship.
In September 2025, he hosted a colorful Constitution Day celebration that symbolized unity between the two nations, further cementing his reputation as a people-centered diplomat. The event was marked by cultural performances, cake-cutting, and public speeches highlighting the shared values of cooperation and mutual respect.
Beyond diplomacy, Dr. Ruparelia has played a vital role in education and youth empowerment. He recently unveiled a scholarship program designed to connect Ugandan and Nepali students, giving young people opportunities to study abroad and gain international exposure. Through these initiatives, he has helped nurture the next generation of leaders who will strengthen Uganda–Nepal ties in the years ahead.
As a prominent businessman, Dr. Ruparelia is also the founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Group, one of East Africa’s largest privately owned conglomerates with investments in real estate, hospitality, education, insurance, media, and finance. His portfolio includes Speke Resort Munyonyo, Crane Management Services, Victoria University, Kampala Parents School, Premier Roses, Sanyu FM, and Goldstar Insurance, among others.
His leadership and innovation have not only shaped Uganda’s private sector but also contributed significantly to the country’s employment and GDP. In 2019, he was recognized by Public Opinions International as a Certified Uganda Development Champion for his contribution toward the Uganda Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Dr. Ruparelia’s story is one of resilience and hard work. Born in Kabatoro, Kasese District, he fled to the United Kingdom with his family in 1972 during the expulsion of Asians by Idi Amin. After returning to Uganda in 1985 with only US$25,000, he started a small business importing spirits and beer before founding Crane Forex Bureau, the country’s first licensed forex bureau. Today, he is one of Africa’s wealthiest businessmen, with a net worth estimated at US$4 billion.
His success story has continued to inspire Ugandans and international investors alike, while his diplomatic achievements have brought Uganda closer to Nepal in trade and cooperation. In recognition of his remarkable service, Dr. Ruparelia has been included in the 2025 Uganda Development Champions Journal, an annual publication honoring leaders advancing national development.
Public Opinions International, which conducted the survey, praised Dr. Ruparelia’s integrity, leadership, and patriotism. The organization noted that his ability to combine diplomacy, business, and philanthropy sets him apart as a model of modern leadership.
Dr. Ruparelia expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to building bridges between Uganda and Nepal. “This honor belongs to both countries. I will continue to promote investment, education, and cultural understanding between our people,” he said.
His recognition as Uganda’s best honorary consul general is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of his dedication to diplomacy and national progress. Through his business empire and consular work, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia continues to play a defining role in strengthening Uganda’s image as a destination for investment, innovation, and international cooperation.
