By Joseph muyingo
KAMPALA — The growing role of private investment in Uganda’s economy has come into focus following remarks by businessman and Ruparelia Group Chairman Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, who says businesses can play a major role in creating jobs, supporting local production and strengthening government revenue.
Speaking during a discussion at Crane Chambers, Sudhir highlighted employment and tax contribution as some of the key ways large businesses support Uganda’s economic development.
He said his business interests employ more than 10,000 people across sectors including real estate, hospitality, education, floriculture and leisure.
Beyond employment, Sudhir pointed to taxation as another major contribution by the private sector. He said companies within the Ruparelia Group pay billions of shillings to government every year through VAT, income-related taxes, withholding tax and other statutory obligations.
He cited one company paying about Shs2.5 billion in VAT monthly, while his real estate businesses contribute more than Shs12 billion in taxes, alongside between Shs9 billion and Shs10 billion in VAT.
Sudhir also attributed the continued expansion of his businesses to professional management and delegation, saying large enterprises require specialised teams to handle areas such as finance, education, administration and operations.
He argued that Uganda’s economic transformation will depend increasingly on investment in productive sectors that can generate employment and reduce reliance on imported goods.
The businessman also pointed to the increasing presence of locally manufactured products in Ugandan supermarkets as evidence of growing domestic production.
His comments come at a time when Uganda is seeking to expand its productive capacity, increase domestic revenue and create more employment opportunities for its growing population.
Sudhir further reflected on the contribution of Ugandans of Asian origin, saying their investments should be viewed through their wider economic impact rather than simply through their background.
He also spoke about the legacy of his late son, Rajiv Ruparelia, whose philanthropic and business contributions continue to attract attention. Rajiv is expected to be honoured posthumously at an event scheduled for August 29 at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
For Sudhir, the future of Uganda’s economy will largely depend on enterprise, investment, professional management and continued expansion of productive activities.
