Sudhir named East African business leader of 2018

Mr Sudhir Ruparelia has been named the East African Business Leader Award of 2018.

The award is given by the East Africa Book of Records in recognition of outstanding individuals in the region.
While receiving the award at Kabira Country Club on Friday, Mr Sudhir thanked the government for an enabling business environment.
“I dedicate this award to His Excellency The President of Uganda and his NRM government for creating an enabling environment and formulating liberal economic policies to encourage entrepreneurs like myself to invest in Uganda and to make the private sector thrive in this country – Without that, let me assure you that with all your business acumen, planning, hard work and dedication you will still struggle to achieve success,” he said.
The East Africa Book of Records was launched in 2013 by a council of the five East Africa presidents with President Yoweri Museveni as the inaugural recipient of the Leadership Award. Other previous recipients include President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Dr. Paul Bamutaze the President of EA Book of Records revealed they will be organising the annual Mr Sudhir Ruparelia Business Lecture for the business magnet to share his knowledge with young people across the African continent. The first such lecture will be held at the University of Nairobi in 2019.
“Mr Sudhir Ruparelia has shown that if you are focused, no barrier can inhibit your success. Young people look up to him and we are glad to tap into his knowledge,” he said.

The business magnet is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of business leaders.
“It is my wish and desire that this award will be an inspiration to the young Turks such as Rajiv (Ruparelia) and his contemporaries to continue on this path and eventually someone will recognise your contributions in developing this wonderful country,” he said.
Sudhir who was previously recognised as one of Africa’s billionaires by Forbes Magazine also dedicated his award to business associates and family including his children Meera, Sheena, Rajiv and Jyotsna his wife of 42 years and counting.
“They have not only been my inspiration but also for their trust and their unwavering commitment by enduring my hard work and often tense moods and by being on my side through all the trials and tribulations which are but inevitable on this arduous journey.