Ugandan billionaire businessman and philanthropist Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia will take the spotlight at the 15th UK–Africa Business Summit, where he is set to deliver a keynote speech on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place in London.
The summit, organised by The Promota Africa, has become one of the leading forums for dialogue between African and UK policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs. Each year it focuses on unlocking trade, driving investment, and promoting sustainable growth across the African continent.
Dr. Ruparelia, Chairman of the Ruparelia Group, is returning to the summit for the second year in a row, reflecting his rising influence as one of Africa’s most important private sector voices. His presence highlights not only his success as an entrepreneur but also his role in shaping Africa’s economic transformation story.
With a portfolio that spans real estate, education, hospitality, banking, insurance, agriculture, and media, Sudhir has played a key role in reshaping Uganda’s private sector for more than 30 years. He is also widely respected for his philanthropy, as well as his advocacy for stronger diaspora engagement and policies that encourage African-led investment.
At the London summit, Sudhir is expected to speak on themes central to Africa’s economic growth. These include expanding enterprises through affordable financing, creating opportunities in ethical agribusiness, and developing resilient urban infrastructure. His contribution is anticipated to blend hands-on entrepreneurial experience with global investor perspectives.
Uganda’s Strong Representation
The 2025 summit will bring together a high-level line-up of leaders. Among the international speakers is Professor Luis Franceschi, Assistant Secretary General of the Commonwealth.
Uganda will also be strongly represented. Confirmed speakers include Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, Treasury Secretary Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi, and Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa. Several other cabinet members will present investment opportunities in energy, trade, infrastructure, and finance.
Senior military and government officials, including Gen. David Muhoozi, Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, and State Ministers Evelyn Anite, Francis Mwebesa, and Musa Ecweru, are also scheduled to share insights on security, investment, and regional integration.
Now in its 15th edition, the UK–Africa Business Summit has grown into a trusted platform for creating real business partnerships. The 2025 programme will showcase bankable projects across energy, ICT, agriculture, and financial services, with dedicated sessions designed to connect investors directly with credible ventures.
The event has the backing of both governments and the private sector, including support from the Uganda High Commission in the UK, the UK Department for Business and Trade, UK Export Finance, and the governments of Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Corporate partners such as Ruparelia Group, EW Properties, and the World Book of Records – London are also lending their support.
According to the organisers, this year’s focus is on execution—turning ideas into real deals by linking capital with opportunities, strengthening small and medium enterprises, and promoting diaspora-led investments. “The focus this year is on execution—matching ideas with capital and building lasting partnerships that can transform economies,” said The Promota Africa in a statement.
Dr. Ruparelia’s participation, alongside top government and business leaders, is expected to place Uganda firmly in the global spotlight. For him, it is another chance to champion the private sector as a driver of sustainable growth for Africa.
The summit will officially open at 9:00 a.m. on September 12, 2025. Interested participants can register at www.ukafricasummit.uk or contact the organisers directly at +44 7868 855 951.
