Ugandan businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia, son of billionaire Sudhir Ruparelia, has died in a car crash along the Munyonyo-Entebbe Expressway, police have confirmed.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 3 May 2025, near the Busabala Flyover in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District. According to a statement by Traffic Police spokesperson SP Michael Kananura, the crash took place at approximately 1:54am.
Rajiv, 35, was driving alone in a Nissan GTR with registration number UAT 638L, heading towards Munyonyo from Kajjansi. Preliminary findings suggest the vehicle lost control after colliding with temporary pavement barriers at a roundabout section of the flyover
“The impact caused the vehicle to overturn and catch fire. Tragically, Rajiv was pronounced dead at the scene,” SP Kananura confirmed. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the precise cause of the crash.
The news has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s business and political communities. Tributes have poured in across social media, honouring Rajiv’s contributions to both the private sector and motorsport.
As Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Rajiv oversaw the expansion of one of Uganda’s most influential business empires, with investments spanning real estate, education, hospitality, and finance. He was also a prominent figure in local motorsport, known for his success in rallying and his philanthropic efforts.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, one of Uganda’s wealthiest and most influential businessmen, has not yet issued a public statement.
Police have extended their condolences to the Ruparelia family as the country mourns the loss of a young entrepreneur widely seen as the heir to one of Uganda’s most powerful business dynasties.
