Uganda’s motorsport fraternity, alongside family and friends, will on May 3, 2026, unite to commemorate one year since the passing of Rajiv Ruparelia—a figure whose influence cut across business, sport, and philanthropy.
Designed as both a tribute and a continuation of his values, the anniversary programme blends remembrance with community outreach, underscoring a legacy defined as much by compassion as by ambition.
The commemorative activities were unveiled on Wednesday at RR Pearl Tower One.
Rajiv, who died on May 3, 2025, following a car accident at Busabala roundabout, was the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group—one of Uganda’s largest conglomerates founded by his father, Sudhir Ruparelia.
Beyond the boardroom, he was a committed rally driver and a passionate advocate for the growth of motorsport in Uganda, while also maintaining a strong footprint in charitable initiatives.
According to organizing committee chairperson Stuart Kimera, the day’s events are intentionally structured to mirror Rajiv’s enduring spirit of giving.
“We celebrate Rajiv because he transformed lives—not only in motorsport but also at a humanitarian level. His reach into communities was profound, and it is only fitting that we honour such a life,” Kimera noted.
The commemoration will commence with a charity outreach at Mulago National Referral Hospital, where the Ruparelia family will lead a blood donation drive.
Participants will then embark on a memorial procession from RR Pearl Tower, traversing Jinja Road, Entebbe Road, and Nsambya before proceeding to Busabala roundabout—the site of the fatal accident—for a floral tribute.
The day will culminate in prayers and a candlelight vigil at Speke Resort Munyonyo, offering a moment of reflection for all those touched by his life.
The motorsport community is expected to feature prominently. Kakaire Charles, president of the Street Racers Club Uganda, confirmed that leading rally drivers will join the tribute, describing the occasion as both solemn and celebratory.
“This is an opportunity to honour our late brother. We invite everyone to participate—from the blood donation at Mulago to the full programme of remembrance,” he said.
Organizers have extended an open invitation to the public, framing the commemoration not merely as a memorial, but as a collective reaffirmation of Rajiv’s ethos—service, passion, and community impact.
As Uganda reflects on a year without him, May 3 is set to stand as more than an anniversary; it will be a reaffirmation of a legacy that continues to resonate across industries and lives alike.
