Renowned businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia has died following a crash involving his Nissan GTR on the Kampala Southern Bypass in the early hours of Saturday morning.
According to traffic police, the 35-year-old was alone in the vehicle when it collided with temporary pavement barriers at the Busabala Flyover in Wakiso District.
The crash, which occurred at approximately 1:54 AM, caused the car to overturn and burst into flames, resulting in Rajiv’s death at the scene.
“The Police at Kajjansi have registered a single fatal crash,” said Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura. “Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover.”
Widely recognised as one of the leading figures in Uganda’s corporate world, Rajiv was also an active and passionate rally driver, known for his efforts to revive and promote motorsport in the country.
He made a bold entry into the rally scene in 2019, quickly making headlines by winning the Kayunga Rally in June of that year—his first major event—beating 21 seasoned drivers.
He expressed his ambition to eventually claim the Pearl of Africa Rally title, signaling his long-term commitment to the sport.
In 2021, Rajiv achieved another career milestone by winning his first National Rally Championship event during the Kabalega Rally held in the Hoima District.
His consistency and discipline behind the wheel continued to earn him admiration, and in March 2022, he led the first day of the Kaliro Sugar Rally, a performance that further solidified his place among Uganda’s rally elite.
Operating under his own “RR Rally Team,” Rajiv viewed motorsport not just as a personal pursuit but as a platform to inspire youth, promote tourism, and develop professional standards in local rallying.
At the time of the accident, Rajiv was driving a Nissan GTR, registration number UAT 638L—a twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V6 supercar capable of reaching speeds over 310 km/h.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
