Kampala, (UG):- Renowned businessman and entrepreneur, Sudhir Ruparelia, has called for the recognition of the Indian community as a Ugandan tribe, citing it as a sign of respect, unity, and honor for their contributions to the country.
Ruparelia made the remarks while receiving the Pan Africanist Entrepreneur Award of the Year at the PAP Global Awards 2024 gala night in Kampala. The award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the Pan-African movement.
In his keynote address, Ruparelia emphasized the importance of Pan-Africanism and unity in shaping a better future for Africa. He also highlighted his own journey to success, rising from humble beginnings to become one of Africa’s most successful entrepreneurs.
“Last year I was the number one biggest tax payer individual, according to URA, my grand father came to Africa over 120 yrs ago. My father was born here, I was born here,all my children are born here. I am a 4th generation living in Africa. So I don’t know who can be more African than me,” Sudhir said sending audience to instant laughters😂.
He added this; ”I’m extremely happy that at least my Pan-Africanism is seen by people like Irumba, because sincerely I will never find a better continent than this, that’s why whatever I do for this continent I do it with one heart. So I feel so honored to have received this award. I’m honestly going to keep this card next to my ATM card, I will always carry it. Pan-Africanism is what should unite us all and therefore I request that you continue to support organizations like PAP because they are tirelessly doing their best for the betterment of our motherland Africa”.
Further, Sudhir sent a message to the government, especially lawmakers, to consider a constitutional amendment and recognize Indians who have lived in Uganda for decades as one of the tribes of Ugandans.
“We are seeking recognition as a tribe in the country, with a call to lawmakers to expedite a constitutional amendment to make it happen. It’s a matter of respect, unity, and honor for the Indian community that has contributed significantly to Uganda’s growth and development for over 120 years,” Dr. Sudhir said.
According to Sudhir, approximately 35,000 Indians live in Uganda at present. The Indian Community is mainly concentrated in Kampala and Jinja, and it is estimated to contribute up to 65% of the country’s total tax revenue. “Let’s be honest, how can a community contribute 65% of total taxes nationally and you call them foreigners, when they’ve been here for over 120 yrs?”
The PAP Global award ceremony was attended by prominent leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across the continent and the diaspora. President Yoweri Museveni was also honored at the event for championing African unity and integration, as well as advocating for economic reliance and value addition to African raw materials.
Ruparelia’s commitment to Pan-Africanism and environmentalism has earned him numerous accolades, including the Golden Jubilee Presidential Medal and an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from Uganda Pentecostal University.
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