Uganda has emerged as a hub for entrepreneurial innovation and industrial growth, home to a dynamic group of influential business magnates who have significantly shaped the nation’s economy. Spanning sectors like real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality, these individuals exemplify innovation, resilience, and vision. Here is Bizmart’s definitive list of Uganda’s wealthiest individuals in 2025, ranked by their net worth.
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 is Uganda’s wealthiest individual and a household name in the business community. As the founder and chairman of the Ruparelia Foundation, he oversees a conglomerate with interests in banking, real estate, insurance, education, floriculture, and hospitality. His vast portfolio includes luxury hotels, commercial properties, and resorts, making him a central figure in Uganda’s economic framework.
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, widely known as Ham, represents the new generation of Ugandan tycoons. His fortune comes from real estate and construction, primarily through the Ham Group of Companies. Ham is also an accomplished author, with notable works like Success and Failure Based on Reason and Reality. His developments include iconic residential and commercial properties in Kampala.
3. Drake Lubega – $1 Billion
- Famous As: CEO of Jesco Industries Limited
Drake Lubega is a key player in Uganda’s real estate sector. His extensive property holdings span almost half of Kampala’s prime locations. With Jesco Industries Limited at the helm of his investments, Lubega continues to diversify his portfolio across various sectors, cementing his reputation as a leading business mogul.
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 multifaceted enterprise operating in hospitality, oil, manufacturing, and automotive services. His renowned chain, CJ’s Restaurant, has become a staple in Uganda and Nairobi. Mandela also serves as the president of Sports Club Villa, further diversifying his influence.
5. Charles Mbire – $500 Million
- Date of Birth: 1959
- Famous As: Chairman of MTN Uganda
Charles Mbire is one of Uganda’s most respected business figures. He chairs MTN Uganda and the Uganda Securities Exchange. His investments span 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 transitioned from medicine to entrepreneurship, founding Roofings Group, one of East Africa’s largest steel manufacturers. His companies supply construction materials across the region, contributing to infrastructure development in Uganda and neighboring countries.
7. Aaron Mukooza – $200 Million
- Date of Birth: April 24, 1979
- Place of Birth: Kampala, Uganda
Aaron Mukooza is a discreet investor with ventures in banking and media. Despite keeping a low public profile, his business acumen has secured his place among Uganda’s wealthiest individuals.
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 veteran entrepreneur and the owner of Spear Motors Uganda, the exclusive distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the country. He has diversified interests in media, tourism, agriculture, and real estate, showcasing his versatility as a businessman.
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, which operates in hospitality, farming, mining, and real estate. Beyond business, he is an advocate for entrepreneurship and an accomplished author, inspiring many through his ventures and literary contributions.
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 with ventures in aluminum manufacturing, real estate, milk processing, and forex trading. His family’s manufacturing legacy dates back to 1939, making him a prominent figure in Uganda’s industrial landscape.
Conclusion
Uganda’s richest individuals have played pivotal roles in the country’s development, transforming sectors like real estate, telecommunications, manufacturing, and hospitality into thriving industries. Their stories of determination, innovation, and strategic growth offer inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. As Uganda continues its journey toward economic transformation, these magnates stand as both architects and pillars of the nation’s progress, ensuring its place as a regional powerhouse.
