KAMPALA, Uganda — Speke Resort Munyonyo on Saturday, August 29, 2026, brought together hundreds of dignitaries, business executives, diplomats and Pan-Africanists for the ninth Pan African Pyramid Global Awards and 12th Anniversary Dinner, hosted by businessman and philanthropist Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia.
As the Guest of Honour, Dr. Ruparelia welcomed guests who had travelled from different parts of Uganda, Africa and the diaspora to attend an evening dedicated to recognising individuals and organisations that have contributed to Africa’s development, humanitarian efforts, entrepreneurship and leadership.
The event attracted participants from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Jamaica and the United States, highlighting the growing international reach of the Pan African Pyramid movement founded by Andrew Irumba.
The occasion also provided an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. Guests paid tribute to Rajiv Ruparelia, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s late son and former Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, who died in a road accident in May 2025 at the age of 35.
Organisers highlighted Rajiv’s contribution to the family’s businesses, particularly in sectors such as education, hospitality, real estate and finance. His passion for motorsport and involvement in initiatives supported by the Ruparelia Foundation, including scholarships and youth programmes, were also remembered.
The gathering observed another moment of silence in honour of Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV, the Omukama of Tooro, who died on August 27, two days before the awards ceremony. Dr. Ruparelia’s connection to the late king through his education was also acknowledged as guests paid their respects.
The awards recognised achievements across a broad range of sectors and areas of African public life. MTN Uganda received the Lifetime Achiever Award for its contribution to connecting communities and supporting economic activity across Africa.
Victoria Sugar Limited was recognised with the African Development Entrepreneur Award for its involvement in sugar production, agro-processing and manufacturing.
Dr. Frank Mugyenyi, founder of the Minerals Africa Development Institute, received the African Mineral Sovereignty and Governance Award. Ghanaian Ambassador Clinton Arko Agyemang was recognised for his work in youth social and development entrepreneurship.
Recognition was also extended to personalities from the African diaspora. Jamaican Pan-Africanist Blossom Thomas received the African Renaissance Leadership in the Diaspora Award, while South African anti-apartheid activist Dr. Khanyisile Litchfield Tshabalala was honoured for her contribution to the struggle for freedom.
Prince Wasajja Kiwanuka also received the African Renaissance Award. Humanitarian Awards were presented posthumously to Rajiv Ruparelia and former Ugandan legislator Helen Nakimuli Walusimbi for their contributions to humanitarian causes.
Before the awards, speakers engaged the audience on several issues affecting Africa’s future, including economic independence, continental integration, decoloniality, the refugee crisis and what some described as new forms of colonialism.
Bishop Joshua Maponga of Zimbabwe, who delivered the keynote address, encouraged participants to reconsider African identity and reflect on the continent’s ability to shape its own economic and political future.
Dr. Tshabalala and Andrew Irumba also emphasised the importance of African unity and integration, drawing inspiration from historic Pan-African figures such as Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba and Marcus Garvey.
Following the formal programme, guests joined in celebrations that included cake cutting, live music and performances by the Bahati Band.
By bringing together entrepreneurs, political leaders, traditional authorities, activists and representatives of the African diaspora, the 2026 Pan African Pyramid Global Awards provided a platform for recognising African achievements while continuing discussions around the continent’s development, identity and future.
