The Ruparelia family has adopted a baby chimpanzee named “RR” in honour of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, reaffirming their longstanding commitment to wildlife conservation while making a significant financial contribution to the protection of endangered chimpanzees.
During a visit to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Chairman of the Ruparelia Group, accompanied by family members, friends and members of the media, announced a donation of Shs50 million through the Ruparelia Foundation to support chimpanzee conservation efforts.
The highlight of the occasion was the official unveiling of a baby chimpanzee, less than a year old, named “RR” in memory of Rajiv Ruparelia, who was a passionate supporter of the sanctuary during his lifetime. The family also formally agreed to adopt the young chimpanzee, ensuring continued support for its care and welfare.
The adoption adds to the family’s existing conservation initiatives. Through the Ruparelia Foundation, the family has for years supported another chimpanzee named “RUPA,” which has since grown into adulthood at the sanctuary.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia said the naming of the baby chimpanzee was a fitting tribute to his son and a way of extending his legacy of compassion and generosity.
“By naming this chimpanzee in his honour, we are not only remembering Rajiv, but also extending his spirit of care, kindness, generosity and responsibility into the future,” Dr. Ruparelia said.
“Chimpanzees are intelligent, emotional and social beings. Like us, they need family, protection, food, medical care and a safe home. Many of the chimpanzees on Ngamba Island have survived difficult circumstances. The work done here gives them dignity, safety and a second chance.”
He added that Rajiv would have been proud of the sanctuary’s work and deeply touched by the honour bestowed upon him.
“As a family, and through the Ruparelia Foundation, we pledge to continue supporting this noble cause. We thank the sanctuary, its founders, caretakers, staff, donors, government and all friends of conservation for the dedication you have shown over the years,” he said.
Dr. Ruparelia also called upon more Ugandan families and corporate organisations to support wildlife conservation efforts.
“May this chimpanzee grow safe, strong and protected. May Rajiv’s name continue to live on through acts of kindness and conservation, and may this moment inspire many more Ugandan families and companies to support the protection of wildlife.”
The Shs50 million donation is expected to support the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts to provide food, medical care and protection for rescued chimpanzees, many of whom are victims of habitat loss, poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located on Lake Victoria in Mukono District, serves as a refuge for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees and remains one of Uganda’s leading conservation centres.
