Uganda, a country rich in cultural heritage and economic potential, is home to some of the most influential entrepreneurs and industrialists in East Africa. These business moguls have built vast empires across diverse sectors, significantly shaping the nation’s economy and positioning Uganda as a regional hub for growth and investment. Here is the definitive 2025 list of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals, ranked by net worth and business impact.
1. Sudhir Ruparelia – $1.4 Billion
- Date of Birth: January 17, 1956
- Place of Birth: Kabatoro, Uganda
- Famous As: CEO of Ruparelia Group of Companies
Sudhir Ruparelia continues to hold the title of Uganda’s wealthiest person. As the founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Foundation, Sudhir has built a conglomerate that dominates sectors such as banking, real estate, insurance, education, floriculture, and hospitality. His portfolio includes luxury hotels, commercial properties, and resorts, solidifying his position as a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy.
2. Hamis Kiggundu – $1.3 Billion
- Date of Birth: February 10, 1984
- Place of Birth: Masaka, Uganda
- Famous As: CEO of Ham Group of Companies
Hamis Kiggundu, affectionately known as Ham, is a dynamic entrepreneur whose wealth originates from real estate and construction. Through his Ham Group of Companies, he has spearheaded the development of iconic commercial and residential buildings in Kampala. In addition to his business ventures, Ham is a published author, with books such as Success and Failure Based on Reason and Reality.
3. Drake Lubega – $1 Billion
- Famous As: CEO of Jesco Industries Limited
Drake Lubega is one of Uganda’s most prominent real estate tycoons. He owns a significant portion of Kampala’s prime commercial properties, including nearly half of the city’s major buildings. His flagship company, Jesco Industries, has enabled him to expand his investments across various sectors.
4. Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela – $550 Million
- Famous As: CEO of CJ’s Restaurant
Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela is a trailblazer in hospitality, oil, manufacturing, and automotive services. His Mandela Group of Companies has grown to become a key player in Uganda’s economy. Mandela also owns the popular CJ’s Restaurant chain, which operates in Uganda and Nairobi, and he serves as the president of Sports Club Villa, a renowned Ugandan football team.
5. Charles Mbire – $500 Million
- Date of Birth: 1959
- Famous As: Chairman of MTN Uganda
Charles Mbire is a respected business leader whose wealth stems from telecommunications, finance, and infrastructure. As chairman of MTN Uganda and the Uganda Securities Exchange, Mbire’s influence extends across multiple industries. He also holds investments in Rift Valley Railways and Ecobank Uganda.
6. Sikander Lalani – $300 Million
- Date of Birth: November 4, 1944
- Place of Birth: Nsambya, Uganda
- Famous As: Managing Director of Roofings Group
Sikander Lalani is a steel magnate who transitioned from medicine to business. He founded the Roofings Group, one of East Africa’s largest steel manufacturers, supplying construction materials to the region. His contributions to Uganda’s infrastructure development have been substantial.
7. Aaron Mukooza – $200 Million
- Date of Birth: April 24, 1979
- Place of Birth: Kampala, Uganda
Aaron Mukooza is a private investor with significant interests in banking and media. Despite maintaining a low public profile, his growing wealth has earned him a spot among Uganda’s wealthiest entrepreneurs.
8. Gordon Wavamunno – $150 Million
- Date of Birth: December 16, 1943
- Place of Birth: Rugaaga, Uganda
- Famous As: CEO of Spear Motors Uganda
Gordon Wavamunno is a versatile entrepreneur best known for owning Spear Motors Uganda, the exclusive distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the country. His investments span media, tourism, agriculture, and real estate.
9. Patrick Bitature – $130 Million
- Date of Birth: May 10, 1960
- Place of Birth: Fort Portal, Uganda
- Famous As: CEO of Simba Group of Companies
Patrick Bitature is the founder of the Simba Group, a conglomerate with interests in hospitality, farming, mining, and real estate. He is also a published author and a vocal advocate for entrepreneurship, mentoring many aspiring Ugandan businesspeople.
10. Mukesh Shukla – $110 Million
- Date of Birth: 1962
- Place of Birth: Arua, Uganda
- Famous As: CEO of Shumuk Group
Mukesh Shukla leads the Shumuk Group, a conglomerate engaged in aluminum manufacturing, real estate, milk processing, and forex trading. With a family legacy in manufacturing dating back to 1939, Mukesh has carried forward a tradition of entrepreneurial success.
Conclusion
Uganda’s wealthiest individuals have played a critical role in shaping the nation’s economic landscape. Their businesses span key industries such as real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality, reflecting Uganda’s growing potential as a regional economic powerhouse. As the country continues to evolve, these magnates remain pivotal in driving growth, inspiring future generations, and positioning Uganda for global relevance. Their stories of resilience, innovation, and strategic investments serve as a beacon of hope for Uganda’s entrepreneurial future.
