Kampala, (UG):- Uganda Billionaire, Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, the chairman of the Ruparelia Group has renewed his call for the formal recognition of Uganda’s Asian community as one of the tribes in the East African country.
Born in Uganda to Indian descent, Dr Sudhir shared his thoughts in a video posted on his TikTok account, ‘jointsofsudhir,’ where he passionately argued for the inclusion of Asians in Uganda’s social framework, just as other migrant groups have been recognized.
“We need an identity in this country, just like others who migrated to Uganda and got recognized,” Sudhir stated. He expressed his attachment to Uganda, despite owning homes in England and Dubai. “Uganda is my home; this will always be my first home.”
Speaking to Rajan Nazran of The Global Indian Network in the video interview, Sudhir emphasized the community’s deep roots and significant contributions to Uganda’s economy.
The Billionaire pointed out that the Asian community contributes between 60 to 65 per cent of the country’s tax revenue, underscoring their economic impact.
The Asian community, particularly those of Indian descent, has a long history in Uganda, dating back to the colonial era. Despite their expulsion by former President Idi Amin in the 1970s, when their businesses were seized and struggled under new management, the community has since reestablished itself as a vital part of Uganda’s business landscape.
Today, the Asian community boasting more than 40,000 natives remains a driving force in Uganda’s economy, operating both large and medium enterprises. From manufacturing to real estate, finance, and hospitality, their influence in various sectors has grown steadily over the years.
Sudhir Ruparelia’s call for recognition reflects the desire for acceptance and identity within the country they have called home for generations.
“Uganda is my home, and that alone shows how much I love it,” he said. “I can live anywhere, but Uganda is always my first home. I have homes in England and Dubai, but Uganda remains my first choice.” These words encapsulate the sentiments of many Asians who were born and raised in Uganda and who view the country not just as a place of business but as their homeland. For them, the call for recognition is not just about formal inclusion but about affirming their identity as Ugandans.
Dr. Ruparelia’s proposal has sparked renewed discussions about the role of Uganda’s Asian community in the country’s socio-cultural fabric. While their economic contributions are well recognized, the formal recognition of their community as one of Uganda’s tribes would be a significant cultural milestone.
It would not only acknowledge the historical presence of Asians in Uganda but also solidify their place in the country’s future.
The proposal invites broader reflection on the evolving nature of national identity and the importance of inclusivity in a multicultural society. Uganda is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, and the recognition of the Asian community would mark an important step in embracing the contributions of all communities, regardless of their origins.
It could also foster a greater sense of belonging for future generations of Asians in Uganda, who, like Dr. Ruparelia, see the country as their first home.
The Ugandan-Indian highlighted that other migrant communities have gained official recognition and that it’s time for the Asian community’s contributions to be formally acknowledged, and as the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Ugandan government will take steps toward recognizing the Asian community as an official tribe.
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