GULU, Uganda — Uganda’s motorsport community has brought competition and charitable activities together in Gulu to honour the memory of the late businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia, celebrating his contribution to the sport and his commitment to supporting communities.
The tribute, held under the “Forever RR” and “Van to Gulu” campaigns, coincides with the sixth round of the 2026 KCB National Rally Championship, organised by the Central Motor Club (CMC) from October 8 to 10.
Beyond the rally stages, the campaign includes planned charitable activities in Luwero and Gulu, reflecting Rajiv’s legacy of generosity and community service.
Charity Activities Accompany Gulu Rally
As part of the journey to northern Uganda, the Rajiv Ruparelia Legacy Van visited Luwero Girls Primary School on Thursday, October 8, for a charitable initiative organised under the “Forever RR” campaign.
Organiser Bukenya Sulaiman said the visit was aimed at preserving Rajiv’s values of kindness, generosity and giving back to society.
In Gulu, the Central Motor Club and the Ruparelia Foundation also announced plans to provide food and essential household supplies to the Gulu Disabled Persons Union. The items include sugar, rice, soap, posho, milk and beans, with the donation scheduled for Friday, October 9, which marks Uganda’s Independence Day.
The outreach activities add a humanitarian element to the motorsport event, linking the rally competition to efforts to assist vulnerable members of the community.
Drivers Gather in Gulu to Honour Rajiv
A total of 32 crews have entered the rally, which covers 375.6 kilometres, including competitive stages across the greater Gulu area.
The competition began with a 3.25-kilometre super special stage and is scheduled to end on Saturday.
Championship leader Hassan Alwi is seeking to consolidate his position in the standings, while other drivers are competing for valuable points as the national championship progresses.
The event holds special meaning for the motorsport fraternity because of Rajiv’s involvement in Ugandan rallying. He founded the Rajiv Ruparelia Rally Team, participated in national competitions and served as patron of the Central Motor Club.
His participation made him a well-known personality in the local motorsport scene. Since his death, fellow drivers and enthusiasts have continued to celebrate his life through rallies and other commemorative events.
Remembering Rajiv Ruparelia
Rajiv, the son of businessman Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, died on May 3, 2025, at the age of 35 following a road accident at the Busabala Flyover in Wakiso District.
Since then, tributes to him have included motorsport competitions, charitable programmes and community initiatives intended to preserve the values associated with his legacy.
Gulu hosted a memorial rally in October 2025. The city council also considered naming a road after Rajiv in recognition of his contribution to motorsport and his support for the region.
The latest campaign brings together racing and community outreach once again, remembering Rajiv not only for his business interests and passion for motorsport but also through activities designed to support others.
As the rally approaches its scheduled conclusion, the commemoration highlights the continued efforts of Uganda’s motorsport community to honour Rajiv through competition, charitable giving and engagement with local communities.