Why Sudhir Ruparelia Should Be Celebrated as a True Pan-Africanist

By Vensor Muhumuza

Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia is one of Uganda’s most successful businessmen, but what makes him truly special is how he uses his wealth to help others. He is not only known for building a business empire, but also for supporting projects that bring Africans together and create a better future for the continent. His recent support for the 8th Pan African Pyramid (PAP) Global Awards 2025 shows once again why he deserves to be celebrated as a true Pan-Africanist.

Dr. Ruparelia is sponsoring this year’s PAP Awards through his Ruparelia Foundation. The support was confirmed by Andrew Irumba Katusabe, the founder and chairman of PAP, who praised Dr. Ruparelia for always standing with the organization. “Yes, he called me and gave me a huge push with some good millions and other privileges,” Irumba said. “But remember, Dr. Sudhir is a Platinum Member — the highest level — and has been supporting us since we started. He has also helped our education programs, debates, and refugee projects.”

The 2025 PAP Awards will be held on August 30 at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala. Dr. Ruparelia will attend as the Guest of Honor, and his support will help make this year’s event even more successful.

A Businessman Who Believes in Africa

Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia is known across East Africa for his success in banking, real estate, education, and hotels. But he is not just a businessman. He is also someone who believes in helping others. Through his foundation, he has supported schools, given scholarships, helped refugees, and invested in projects that give hope to young people.

In 2024, Dr. Ruparelia was given a PAP Global Award for his work. He didn’t just receive the award and walk away. He came back in 2025 with even stronger support, proving that he truly believes in what PAP stands for — African unity, pride, and progress.

What is the Pan African Pyramid?

The Pan African Pyramid is a group that started in Kampala in 2014. Its goal is to bring back the spirit of Pan-Africanism — the belief that African countries should work together, support each other, and build a strong and united continent. Their slogan is “Don’t Agonize, Organize,” which means that instead of complaining, people should take action.

Every week, PAP holds public debates, talks, and mentorship programs. These activities bring together students, young leaders, and professionals who want to see Africa move forward. The group also works on real-life problems by helping refugees and giving support to those in need.

Over the years, PAP has grown into a big movement. It is now known in many parts of Africa and brings together important voices from across the continent and beyond.

Celebrating African Heroes

Since 2018, the PAP Global Awards have honored people and groups who are making a real difference in Africa. These awards are given to those who are helping others in areas like education, leadership, activism, and business. The goal is to show that Africa has its own heroes — people who work hard every day to improve their countries and communities.

Dr. Ruparelia’s support for these awards helps the organizers reach more people, celebrate more heroes, and inspire more young Africans to believe in themselves. As the Guest of Honor at this year’s event, he is not just giving money. He is giving his name, his time, and his support to something bigger than himself.

A Leader Africa Needs

Africa needs leaders who care — not just about money or power, but about people. Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia is that kind of leader. He believes in building others up, creating opportunities, and showing the world that Africa has great potential.

His continued support for PAP shows that he is not just interested in Uganda’s future, but in the future of the whole continent. He doesn’t talk about change — he supports it, funds it, and stands behind those who are working hard to make it happen.

As we look forward to the 8th PAP Global Awards, it’s important to remember and celebrate the people behind the scenes who make these events possible. Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia is one of them. His actions prove that real Pan-Africanism is not just about words. It’s about giving, sharing, and building together.

That’s why Sudhir Ruparelia should be seen not just as a businessman, but as a true Pan-Africanist. He believes in Africa, and he’s doing everything he can to help it rise.