Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has once again cemented his status as Uganda’s wealthiest individual, topping the Forbes Africa Billionaires List for 2025 with an estimated net worth of $1.6 billion.
The seasoned businessman and founder of the Ruparelia Group continues to dominate Uganda’s economic landscape, thanks to his expansive empire that spans banking, real estate, insurance, education, floriculture, and hospitality.
Sudhir’s consistent ranking at the top is attributed not only to his diversified investment portfolio but also to his resilience and strategic business acumen.
Despite facing significant challenges—including the controversial closure of Crane Bank in 2017—his ventures have remained strong, with landmark properties such as Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kabira Country Club, Speke Apartments, Bukoto Heights, Pearl Business Park, and Tagore Living, among others, reinforcing his real estate dominance.
Uganda’s Top 10 Richest in 2025
The Forbes Africa 2025 Billionaires List also features a blend of veteran tycoons and emerging business giants who are reshaping Uganda’s commercial landscape. Below is the ranking of the country’s top 10 wealthiest individuals:
1. Sudhir Ruparelia – $1.6 Billion
Chairman of the Ruparelia Group, Sudhir’s portfolio covers multiple sectors, with major interests in real estate, banking (formerly Crane Bank), hospitality, education (e.g., Kampala Parents School, Delhi Public School International), and agriculture.
2. Drake Lubega – $850 Million
Renowned for his extensive real estate holdings across Kampala, Lubega’s fortune stems from commercial buildings, shopping arcades, and residential properties. He has also ventured into manufacturing and hospitality.
3. Mansoor Matovu ‘Yanga’ – $785 Million
A real estate mogul with investments in logistics and transportation, Yanga owns numerous high-value properties and has maintained a strong presence in Uganda’s import-export sector.
4. John Bosco Muwonge – $720 Million
A low-profile investor with a high-impact portfolio, Muwonge owns several shopping malls, arcades, and upscale apartments in Kampala’s central business district.
5. Godfrey Kirumira – $700 Million
Chairman of the Kwagalana Group, Kirumira’s wealth spans petroleum (GM Tumpeco), manufacturing, hospitality, and real estate. His business influence extends through strategic partnerships and industry leadership.
6. Guster Lule Ntake – $697 Million
A versatile entrepreneur, Ntake has substantial interests in modern agriculture, hospitality, and commercial real estate. His disciplined investment approach has made him a respected figure in Uganda’s business circles.
7. Tom Kitandwe – $602.7 Million
With a diverse portfolio in agriculture, telecommunications, and landholding, Kitandwe has emerged as a key player in agribusiness through modern farming techniques and large-scale production.
8. Hamis Kiggundu (Ham) – $601.9 Million
The youngest on the list, Hamis made his mark through projects like Ham Towers, Ham Shopping Mall, and the Nakivubo Stadium redevelopment. He is also a motivational speaker and youth advocate, with strong real estate and publishing interests.
9. Christine Nabukeera & Charles Mbire – $600 Million (each)
Nabukeera has made significant strides in hospitality and luxury real estate, while Mbire, as Chairman of MTN Uganda, has diverse interests in telecommunications, energy, pharmaceuticals, and finance.
10. Amos Nzeyi – $250 Million
Founder of Crown Beverages Limited, Nzeyi’s wealth is rooted in beverage bottling, agriculture, real estate, and hospitality. His consistent business record has earned him a solid reputation for stability and success.
More Than Just Wealth: National Impact
Beyond their fortunes, Uganda’s billionaires continue to play a critical role in national development, contributing to employment creation, education, health, and community empowerment.
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Sudhir Ruparelia, through the Ruparelia Foundation, supports educational institutions and health initiatives.
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Hamis Kiggundu invests in youth empowerment programs and business mentorship.
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Godfrey Kirumira and Charles Mbire are known for their involvement in social investments and philanthropic efforts.
As Uganda’s economy continues to attract foreign direct investment and diversify across sectors, these business leaders are not just accumulating wealth—they are shaping the future of the nation.
