HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I For memory’s sake, businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia and his family have named and adopted a rescued baby chimpanzee in honour of his late son, Rajiv Ruparelia, in a touching tribute that reflects Rajiv’s lifelong passion for wildlife conservation. The gesture was aimed at preserving his legacy while continuing the environmental causes he championed during his lifetime.
On June 20, 2026, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, accompanied by family members, friends and members of the media, visited the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria for a special ceremony that combined remembrance, philanthropy and conservation. During the visit, the family officially named a seven-month-old rescued chimpanzee “RR,” using the initials of Rajiv Ruparelia, who tragically lost his life in a car crash on May 3, 2025.
The naming of the young chimpanzee carried deep emotional significance for the Ruparelia family. More than a symbolic act, it was a deliberate effort to ensure that Rajiv’s commitment to protecting wildlife and promoting environmental sustainability continues to inspire future generations.
Conservation advocate
Throughout his life, Rajiv was recognised as a passionate advocate for conservation and was actively involved in supporting the work of the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Sanctuary officials noted that Rajiv consistently demonstrated a strong interest in safeguarding Uganda’s natural heritage, particularly endangered species such as chimpanzees. His support for conservation programmes earned him admiration from environmentalists and members of the public who shared his vision for a sustainable future. By naming the rescued chimpanzee after him, the family has created a lasting reminder of his dedication to wildlife protection.
Another key reason behind the adoption was the desire to strengthen and continue the family’s longstanding relationship with the sanctuary. The Ruparelia family has supported Ngamba Island’s conservation efforts for years through the Ruparelia Foundation.
Their involvement includes sponsoring the care of another chimpanzee known as “RUPA,” which has since grown into adulthood under the sanctuary’s protection. The adoption of baby RR therefore represents a continuation of a partnership built on shared conservation values.
Shs50 million donation
In addition to the adoption, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia announced a donation of Shs50 million through the Ruparelia Foundation to support the sanctuary’s ongoing conservation programmes. The contribution will help provide care, rehabilitation and protection for rescued and orphaned chimpanzees housed at the facility. The donation reflects the family’s commitment to ensuring that RR and other primates receive the resources necessary for their long-term welfare.
The financial support also underscores one of the major motivations behind the tribute: transforming remembrance into meaningful action. Rather than simply commemorating Rajiv through words, the family chose to support a cause that was close to his heart. The donation will contribute to rescue efforts, education programmes and awareness campaigns aimed at protecting Uganda’s endangered chimpanzee population.
Speaking during the visit, sanctuary officials praised the Ruparelia Foundation for its continued support, emphasising the importance of private sector involvement in conservation. They noted that partnerships with individuals, corporations and charitable organisations play a critical role in sustaining wildlife protection initiatives and ensuring that rescued animals receive proper care.
Rajiv’s philanthropic vision
For Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, the adoption of baby RR is also a way of keeping his son’s philanthropic vision alive. Rajiv served as Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group and was known for supporting various causes beyond business, including environmental sustainability. Through this tribute, the family hopes that the values he championed will continue to make a positive impact on society.
The the naming and adoption of RR symbolise love, remembrance and responsibility. It is a tribute that honours Rajiv Ruparelia’s passion for wildlife conservation, reinforces the Ruparelia family’s long-standing commitment to environmental protection and ensures that his legacy continues through meaningful action.
By supporting the sanctuary and adopting the young chimpanzee, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia has transformed personal loss into a lasting contribution to the protection of Uganda’s endangered wildlife.
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