Uganda’s vibrant economy is significantly shaped by the contributions of Indian business families, whose entrepreneurial spirit and resilience have left an indelible mark on the nation’s landscape.
Since their arrival in the early 20th century, these families have played a pivotal role in various sectors, from trade and agriculture to manufacturing and real estate.
Their ability to adapt and thrive through Uganda’s complex political and economic challenges speaks to their ingenuity and determination.
In this article, WoA looks at the most influential Indian business families in Uganda, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the economy.
1. The Mehta family
The Mehta family is associated with Mehta Group, an Indian conglomerate founded by Nanji Kalidas Mehta in 1900, which operates in sectors like sugar, cement, and consulting across multiple countries.
Additionally, the Bhupat & Jyoti Mehta Family Foundation, established by Rahul Mehta and his siblings, focuses on improving education and quality of life globally.
The family also includes notable individuals like Harshad Mehta, a controversial stockbroker involved in a major financial scandal in the 1990s.
2. The Madhvani family
The Madhvani family, originally from India, is known for establishing the Madhvani Group, a major conglomerate in Uganda.
Muljibhai Madhvani, the patriarch, founded the business after migrating to Uganda.
His sons, Jayant and Manubhai, expanded the company into various sectors, including sugar production and textiles.
Today, the group is managed by Muljibhai’s descendants, including Mayur and Kamlesh Madhvani, continuing their legacy in diversified industries.
3. The Mukwano family
The Mukwano family, originally from India, established their presence in East Africa in 1904.
Alimohamed Karmali, the patriarch, settled in Uganda and earned the nickname “Mukwano,” meaning friendship.
His son, Amirali Karmali, founded Mukwano Industries Limited in 1986, which has grown into a major conglomerate in Uganda, involved in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics.
Alykhan Karmali currently leads the company, continuing the family’s legacy of community engagement and business development
4. The Ruparelia family
The Ruparelia family, led by Sudhir Ruparelia, operates in diverse sectors including real estate, banking, and education.
He is married to Jyotsna and they have three children: Meera, Rajiv, and Sheena.
Meera and Sheena are involved in various family businesses, while Rajiv serves as the managing director of the Ruparelia Group.
The family is known for their significant wealth and contributions to Uganda’s economy.
5. Karim Hirji
Karim Hirji is a prominent Ugandan businessman and hotelier, recognized as one of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals, with an estimated net worth of approximately $800 million.
He initially gained fame as a champion automobile racer in the 1960s and 1970s.
In the late 1980s, he founded Dembe Enterprises, which evolved into the expansive Dembe Group, encompassing various businesses including the Imperial Hotels Group and Dembe FM radio station.
Hirji also owns Cham Towers, previously known as Uganda Commercial Bank Towers123
6. Abid Alam
Abid Alam is the Managing Director of the Alam Group of Companies, a major conglomerate in Uganda founded in 1965.
The group operates in various sectors, including steel manufacturing, aluminum processing, agriculture, and electricity generation.
Alam has significantly contributed to Uganda’s economy by creating thousands of jobs and promoting local industries.
His family has deep roots in Uganda, and he is known for his commitment to national development through his investments and business practices.
7. Sikander Lalani
Sikander Lalani is a prominent Ugandan businessman, serving as the Managing Director of Roofings Group, a leading steel manufacturing company.
He established Roofings Group after moving to Uganda from Rwanda following the genocide in 1994.
Lalani has built a successful conglomerate with multiple factories and is recognized as one of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals, with an estimated net worth of around $1 billion.
