Sudhir Ruparelia calls for formal recognition of Uganda’s Asian community

Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, chairman of the Ruparelia Group and Uganda’s wealthiest businessman, has renewed his call for the Asian community to be formally recognized as one of Uganda’s tribes.

In an interview with Rajan Nazran of The Global Indian Network, Ruparelia emphasized the community’s deep roots and significant contributions to Uganda’s economy.

Ruparelia, who was raised in Kasese, western Uganda, highlighted that Asians have been part of Uganda’s society for over 120 years and currently make up around 0.001% of the population.

He pointed out that the Asian community contributes between 60 to 65 percent of the country’s tax revenue, underscoring their economic impact.

“We need an identity in this country, just like others who migrated to Uganda and got recognized,” Ruparelia stated. He expressed his attachment to Uganda, despite owning homes in England and Dubai. “Uganda is my home; this will always be my first home.”

The Asian community, particularly those of Indian descent, has a long history in Uganda, dating back to the colonial era. Despite their expulsion by former President Idi Amin in the 1970s, when their businesses were seized and struggled under new management, the community has since reestablished itself as a vital part of Uganda’s business landscape.

Today, an estimated 40,000 Indians live in Uganda, running businesses in sectors such as trade, tourism, textiles, and retail.

Ruparelia’s call for recognition reflects the desire for acceptance and identity within the country they have called home for generations. He highlighted that other migrant communities have gained official recognition and that it’s time for the Asian community’s contributions to be formally acknowledged.