Ugandan-Indian billionaire Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, chairman of the Ruparelia Group, has reignited discussions about formally recognising Uganda’s Asian community as one of the country’s official tribes.
In a video shared on his TikTok account, “jointsofsudhir,” Dr. Sudhir, who was born in Uganda to Indian parents, passionately advocated for the community’s inclusion, pointing out that other migrant groups have been officially recognised as tribes.
“We need an identity in this country, just like others who migrated to Uganda and got recognised,” Dr. Sudhir said in the video, reaffirming his strong ties to Uganda despite owning homes in England and Dubai. “Uganda is my home; it will always be my first home,” he added.
In an interview with Rajan Nazran of The Global Indian Network, Dr. Sudhir highlighted the deep historical roots and significant contributions of Uganda’s Asian community, particularly its economic impact.
He revealed that the community contributes 60 to 65 percent of the country’s tax revenue, underscoring their vital role in Uganda’s economy.
Uganda’s Asian community, largely of Indian descent, has a long history in the country, dating back to colonial times.
Although they were expelled in the 1970s by former President Idi Amin, who seized their businesses, many Asians returned to Uganda after the regime’s fall and rebuilt their businesses, cementing their place in Uganda’s economy.
Today, the community of over 40,000 people is a major force in sectors such as real estate, finance, hospitality, and manufacturing.
Dr. Sudhir’s call for recognition reflects the community’s desire for formal inclusion and acceptance within Uganda’s social framework. He emphasized that many Asians born and raised in Uganda view the country as their true homeland and that recognition would affirm their identity as Ugandans.
“Uganda is my first choice,” he said. “I can live anywhere, but Uganda is always my first home.”
The proposal has sparked renewed debates about the Asian community’s role in Uganda’s sociocultural fabric.
While their economic contributions are well known, formal recognition as a tribe would mark a significant cultural milestone and further solidify their place in the country’s future.
The discussion also touches on broader issues of national identity and inclusivity, as Uganda is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups.
Dr. Sudhir pointed out that other migrant communities have already gained official recognition, and he believes it’s time for the Asian community’s contributions to be similarly acknowledged.
As this conversation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Ugandan government will take steps to recognise the Asian community as an official tribe, potentially paving the way for greater inclusivity and cultural integration for future generations.
