Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is home to a thriving entrepreneurial spirit that has propelled the nation into a regional hub for business and investment. The country’s wealthiest individuals have built vast business empires across various sectors, including real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality. Here is the definitive list of Uganda’s richest people in 2025, highlighting their impressive 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 continues to dominate as Uganda’s wealthiest individual. As the founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Foundation, Sudhir oversees a conglomerate with interests spanning banking, real estate, insurance, education, floriculture, and hospitality. His portfolio includes luxury hotels, commercial properties, and resorts, cementing his legacy 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, popularly known as Ham, is a youthful billionaire whose wealth is derived from real estate and construction. Through the Ham Group of Companies, he has developed iconic commercial and residential properties in Kampala. Beyond his business ventures, Ham is also a published author, with works like 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 premier real estate moguls. His extensive property portfolio includes nearly half of Kampala’s landmark buildings. As the CEO of Jesco Industries, he continues to expand his influence across multiple sectors, solidifying his place among Uganda’s elite.
4. Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela – $550 Million
- Famous As: CEO of CJ’s Restaurant
Hajj Omar Ahmed Mandela is the founder of the Mandela Group of Companies, a diversified conglomerate with ventures in hospitality, oil, manufacturing, and automotive services. He owns the renowned CJ’s Restaurant chain in Uganda and Nairobi and serves as the president of Sports Club Villa, one of Uganda’s most successful football teams.
5. Charles Mbire – $500 Million
- Date of Birth: 1959
- Famous As: Chairman of MTN Uganda
Charles Mbire is a respected businessman and investor. He chairs MTN Uganda, one of the country’s leading telecommunications providers, and the Uganda Securities Exchange. His wealth is built on investments in telecommunications, finance, and infrastructure, with additional stakes 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 and the founder of the Roofings Group, East Africa’s largest steel manufacturer. His company supplies construction materials to multiple countries in the region, contributing significantly to Uganda’s infrastructure development.
7. Aaron Mukooza – $200 Million
- Date of Birth: April 24, 1979
- Place of Birth: Kampala, Uganda
Aaron Mukooza has made a name for himself with investments in banking and media, although he maintains a low public profile. His ventures have established him as one of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals, demonstrating the power of strategic, diversified investments.
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 widely recognized as the owner of Spear Motors Uganda, the sole distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the country. His investments extend into media, tourism, agriculture, and real estate, showcasing his versatility as an 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 and chairman of the Simba Group, a conglomerate operating in hospitality, farming, mining, and real estate. He is also a published author and a prominent advocate for entrepreneurship in Uganda, inspiring the next generation of business leaders.
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 involved in aluminum manufacturing, real estate, milk processing, and forex trading. His family’s manufacturing legacy, which began in 1939, has positioned him as a key player in Uganda’s industrial sector.
Conclusion
Uganda’s richest individuals have significantly contributed to the nation’s development by excelling in diverse industries such as real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality. Their entrepreneurial endeavors have not only fueled economic growth but have also positioned Uganda as a regional hub for business and investment. As the country continues its journey toward progress, these magnates remain vital in shaping Uganda’s economic future and inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
