Uganda is home to a vibrant and dynamic group of entrepreneurs and industrialists whose influence extends across various sectors. Their innovations and investments have significantly contributed to the nation’s economic development, establishing Uganda as a regional hub for business and growth. Here is a comprehensive look at the wealthiest individuals in Uganda in 2025, based on their net worth, influence, and contributions to the economy.
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 remains at the pinnacle of Uganda’s wealth hierarchy. A third-generation Gujarati-Ugandan, Sudhir is the founder of the Ruparelia Foundation, a conglomerate with diverse interests in banking, real estate, education, insurance, floriculture, and hospitality. His vast portfolio includes luxury hotels, commercial buildings, and resorts. Sudhir’s ventures not only bolster Uganda’s economy but also enhance its global business profile.
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, popularly known as Ham, is one of Uganda’s youngest billionaires. His fortune stems from real estate and construction, with landmark commercial and residential properties dotting Kampala’s skyline. As CEO of Ham Group of Companies, he has become a symbol of ambition and success. Ham is also a prolific author, with works like Success and Failure Based on Reason and Reality, which inspire budding entrepreneurs.
3. Drake Lubega – $1 Billion
- Famous As: CEO of Jesco Industries Limited
Drake Lubega’s wealth is deeply rooted in real estate, particularly in Kampala, where he owns a significant portion of the city’s prime commercial properties. As the CEO of Jesco Industries, Lubega’s investments continue to expand, securing his position among Uganda’s wealthiest.
4. Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela – $550 Million
- Famous As: CEO of CJ’s Restaurant
Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela is a household name in Uganda’s hospitality sector. As the founder of the Mandela Group of Companies, his ventures span hospitality, oil, manufacturing, and the automotive industry. He owns CJ’s Restaurant, a popular chain in Uganda and Nairobi, and also serves as president of Sports Club Villa, a key player in Uganda’s football scene.
5. Charles Mbire – $500 Million
- Date of Birth: 1959
- Famous As: Chairman of MTN Uganda
Charles Mbire is a respected figure in Uganda’s business community, known for his leadership roles in telecommunications and finance. As chairman of MTN Uganda and the Uganda Securities Exchange, his influence extends across the nation’s economic backbone. Mbire also holds stakes in Rift Valley Railways and Ecobank Uganda, further diversifying his portfolio.
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 and the founder of Roofings Group, a company renowned for its role in Uganda’s infrastructure development. Roofings Group manufactures high-quality steel products that are used across East Africa, cementing Lalani’s legacy as a key contributor to the region’s construction industry.
7. Aaron Mukooza – $200 Million
- Date of Birth: April 24, 1979
- Place of Birth: Kampala, Uganda
Aaron Mukooza is a quiet yet influential investor with significant interests in banking and media. His ventures, though not widely publicized, have earned him a place among Uganda’s elite, contributing to the nation’s financial and communication sectors.
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 synonymous with luxury vehicles in Uganda as the owner of Spear Motors, the exclusive distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the country. His business interests extend to media, tourism, agriculture, and real estate, making him a versatile entrepreneur.
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 operating in hospitality, farming, mining, and real estate. He is also an advocate for entrepreneurship and a published author. Bitature’s businesses have significantly impacted Uganda’s economic growth.
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, which is involved in aluminum manufacturing, real estate, milk processing, and forex trading. His family’s entrepreneurial roots date back to 1939, making Mukesh a legacy businessman with modern sensibilities.
Conclusion
The individuals on this list have made remarkable contributions to Uganda’s economic growth, spanning industries like real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality. Their success stories highlight the potential of innovation, resilience, and entrepreneurship in driving national progress. As Uganda continues its journey toward development, these business magnates will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future, inspiring generations to come.
