Wakiso, Uganda | In the still hours of Saturday morning, the thunderous engine of a Nissan GTR tore through the Kampala Southern Bypass Highway—until tragedy struck at the Busabala Flyover.
The high-performance sports car collided with temporary pavement barriers and burst into flames, instantly claiming the life of one of Uganda’s most dynamic business figures, Rajiv Ruparelia.
According to Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura, the crash occurred at around 1:54 AM in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover,” Kananura said.
“The vehicle subsequently overturned and caught fire, leading to the instant death of the driver, identified as Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia.”
Tragic Return
Additional details from eyewitnesses paint a clearer picture. A boda boda rider near the scene reported that Rajiv was “absolutely flying.” The car struck the road barriers at high speed, flew through the air for nearly 80 meters, and exploded into flames.
He is believed to have been unaware of the recently installed roadworks—likely due to having just returned to Uganda from London, where he had been living.
More heartbreakingly, Rajiv had come home to attend the wedding of his close friend, Jonathan Bahizi Buteera, the son of outgoing Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera. The wedding was scheduled for Saturday morning at All Saints Cathedral, and Rajiv had planned to join the convoy with the groom.
Just hours earlier, he shared a touching photo of his daughter on Instagram—a final moment that now resonates deeply with friends and followers.
‘Godzilla’
The car involved was a Nissan GTR, registration number UAT 638L—a precision-engineered machine revered by motoring enthusiasts for its fusion of brute power and advanced technology.
Capable of 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed over 310 km/h, the GTR is equipped with all-wheel drive, multi-mode adjustable suspension, and a lightning-fast dual-clutch gearbox.
However, such power demands control. Its stiff ride, low clearance, and aggressive torque can be unforgiving on urban roads—especially in unpredictable zones like temporary construction areas.
Locals have long raised concerns about signage and lane visibility at the Busabala Flyover, which recently underwent changes due to roadworks.
Rajiv’s Legacy
Rajiv was more than just a businessman. As Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, he oversaw a massive portfolio spanning real estate, banking, education, hospitality, and agriculture.
A graduate of Regent’s University London, Rajiv spearheaded major developments such as Speke Apartments, Kingdom Kampala, and Kampala Boulevard. He was also a motorsport enthusiast and founder of the Rajiv Ruparelia Rally Team, credited with reviving competitive rallying in Uganda.
He combined bold ambition with personal humility, and his calm demeanor was evident even behind the wheel of high-performance machines.
Through the Ruparelia Foundation, he helped channel corporate success into community upliftment and philanthropy, supporting education and environmental causes.
Road Carnage Crisis
Rajiv’s death now adds to Uganda’s growing road safety crisis. According to the 2024 Annual Crime Report, at least 5,144 people died in road crashes last year—averaging 14 deaths daily.
Experts cite high-speed driving, poor road design, lack of signage, and dangerous construction zones as contributing factors.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing. A full report on the cause of the crash will be released in due course. Funeral arrangements for Rajiv Ruparelia are expected to be announced by the family.
