Property mogul Dr Sudhir Ruparelia has been named the lifetime tourism achiever 2019 at Ekkula Pearl of Africa Tourism Awards.
The event that took place on Friday at Sheraton Hotel Kampala recognizes the individuals and brands “that love Uganda relentlessly and stand out in the tourism industry for their selfless service”.
Dr Sudhir’s recognition follows his heavy investments and endless support towards the industry.
In 2018, he was recognised for becoming a guardian to ‘Ruparelia’, a baby chimp at Ngamba sanctuary as a gesture of supporting conservation efforts in the country.
The businessman under his Ruparelia Foundation is passionate about environmental conservation and has supported Ngamba chimpanzee sanctuary for decades, having contributed to the actual purchase of the island where the sanctuary sits.
Below is the full list of winners;
Tourism Personality of the Year – Godfrey Kiwanda Suubi
Lifetime Tourism Achiever – Sudhir Ruparelia
Best Overall Tourism Event – Nyege Nyege Festival
Best Promotional Cultural Event – Bakiga Nation
Best Food Event – Rolex Festival
Best Domestic Airline – Aero Link
Best User-Friendly Digital Transport – SafeBoda
Best International Airline (Economy) – Ethiopian Airlines
Best International (Business) – Emirates
Best Tourism Photographer – Mathias Mugisha
Most Active Tourism Cluster – Kigezi
Most Attractive Tourism Association – Association of Uganda Tour Operators
Finest Traditional Dance Troupe – Kika Dance Troupe
Best Private Wildlife Conservation Centre – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Exceptional Tourism Promoter on Social Media – Sarah Kagingo
Best Fashion Event – Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards
Young Tourism Achiever – Nataliey Bitature
Tourism Ambassador – Zarinah Tlale
Ugandan Cuisines Restaurant – -Shaka Zulu
Standard Service Hotel – Wash & Wills
Eco Safari Lodge – Seranada Eco Resort
New Hotel of the Year – Skyz Hotel Naguru
Service and Luxury Biz Hotel – Speke Resort Munyonyo
Fast Foods Restaurant – CafeJavas
Tour Guides – Ashley Brian, Ben, Denis Arinitwe
