
Combo: The wreckage of the car (R) in which businessman Rajiv Ruparelia (L) died at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District. Photos/Courtesy
Uganda is mourning the tragic death of prominent businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia, who died in a car crash in the early hours of Saturday, May 3, 2025.
Police confirmed that the fatal incident occurred at the Busabala Flyover traffic lights in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District. According to Traffic Police spokesperson SP Michael Kananura, Rajiv was driving a Nissan GTR, registration number UAT 638L, when the vehicle struck temporary concrete pavements at the roundabout section of the flyover, overturned, and subsequently caught fire.
“The car then overturned and caught fire, resulting in the instant death of the driver, Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia,” SP Kananura stated. “The exact cause of the crash has not yet been determined; however, investigations are underway, and we will provide updates to the public as more information becomes available.”
Rajiv was reportedly driving from Kajjansi in the direction of Munyonyo at the time of the accident.
The 35-year-old was the only son of Ugandan business magnate Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and served as the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, one of East Africa’s most expansive conglomerates. The group has diversified investments in banking, insurance, real estate, education, hospitality, broadcasting, and floriculture, playing a significant role in shaping Uganda’s private sector economy.
Beyond his business acumen, Rajiv had also made a name for himself in the world of motorsport. As an accomplished rally car driver, he was a fixture in Uganda’s motorsport scene and an advocate for youth empowerment through sports.
News of his passing has sent shockwaves through the business and motorsport communities, with tributes pouring in from leaders, friends, and citizens across the country.
More details, including funeral arrangements, are expected in the coming days as the investigation into the crash continues.
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