Ezra Twino | Kampala | May 2, 2026Uganda’s motorsport community, family and friends will mark one year since the passing of businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia with a full day of commemorative activities across Kampala tomorrow, Sunday, May 3, 2026.
The events, branded “Remembering RR,” combine remembrance with community outreach in line with Rajiv’s legacy in business, motorsport and philanthropy. Organisers expect thousands of motorists, business leaders and well-wishers to attend.
FULL PROGRAMME FOR SUNDAY, MAY 3
10:30 AM – Charity Outreach, Mulago National Referral Hospital
Prosthetic Leg Donation Drive under the Department of Orthopaedics, part of a three-day humanitarian camp by the Ruparelia Foundation to “restore mobility and dignity to vulnerable Ugandans living with limb loss”.
Blood Donation Drive led by the Ruparelia family.
2:30 PM – Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Drive
Assembly point: RR Pearl Tower One, Pearl Business Park. Registration and pre-drive briefing before flag-off.
Route: Flag-off at Pearl Business Park → Yusuf Lule Road → Jinja Road → Entebbe Road → Nsambya → Busabala Roundabout for floral tribute at the crash site.
The drive is organised by TT Drags and Drifts UG under the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of Uganda. Organisers say it is “non-competitive” with safety measures prioritized. Traffic Police advise motorists to expect temporary delays along the route.
5:30 PM – Candlelight Vigil, Speke Resort Munyonyo
Prayers and candle lighting ceremony to close the day, described as “a moment of reflection and unity in honour of a legacy many describe as defined by generosity and purpose”.
TRIBUTE FROM FATHER DR. SUDHIR RUPARELIA
Business magnate Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, who dedicated RR Pearl Tower One to his late son, has described Rajiv as “a vibrant, gifted, and compassionate soul whose presence lit up every space he entered.”
“As a father, I carry the unimaginable pain of loss and immense pride of having raised a son like Rajiv,” Sudhir said at Rajiv’s cremation. “What I will always remember most is his vibrant energy—energy that could fill a room, light up a gathering, and spark inspiration in everyone he met.”
He added: “But what truly defined Rajiv was his enormous heart. He was especially passionate about helping children from underprivileged backgrounds. Quietly, he supported their education—from primary school to university—providing resources, mentorship, and encouragement.”
“Rajiv’s impact was far greater than his years… You gave me joy, pride, and purpose through your time with us. Though short, your legacy will last forever.”
SIDEBAR: RAJIV RUPARELIA’S MOTORSPORT LEGACY
Rally debut: May 2019 at the Enduro Autocross championship in Zion Estates, Ssisa.
Teams & roles: Founded the Rajiv Ruparelia Rally Team. Served as patron of Central Motorsport Club.
Notable events: Competed in Kayunga and Kapeeka Autocross rallies, Kalangala rally, Mbarara rally and Kabalega rally.
Car: Drove UAT 638L, a Nissan GTR Supercar nicknamed “Godzilla”.
Crash: Died May 3, 2025, at about 1:54 AM at the Busaabala Flyover along the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, heading towards Speke Resort Munyonyo.
WHO WAS RAJIV RUPARELIA
The only son of Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Rajiv was Managing Director of Ruparelia Group with interests in banking, insurance, education, real estate, floriculture and hotels. He was 35 at the time of his death.
Kakaire Charles, president of Street Racers Club Uganda, said: “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”.
Eastafricaobserver will provide coverage of tomorrow’s events. Participants in the Memorial Drive are urged to follow instructions from organisers, FMU officials, and Traffic Police. The public is welcome at all events.