By Frank Kamuntu
Uganda’s leading businessman, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, joined prominent entrepreneurs, senior government officials and distinguished guests at a grand thanksgiving dinner held in honour of renowned businesswoman Mrs. Goodra Tumusiime Behakanira at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The colourful celebration drew thousands of invited guests from across the country, bringing together influential figures from the business, political and religious spheres to celebrate Goodra’s remarkable journey of faith, resilience and entrepreneurial success.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia’s attendance underscored his close ties with Uganda’s business community and his continued support for fellow entrepreneurs whose stories inspire economic transformation and national development.
The elegant event, hosted at the prestigious Speke Resort Munyonyo, was marked by heartfelt testimonies, worship, thanksgiving prayers and reflections on the values of perseverance, integrity and faith that have shaped Goodra’s life.
Addressing the gathering, Goodra recounted her humble beginnings, revealing that her entrepreneurial journey started with a small kiosk in Kabale before growing into a successful business empire.
She attributed her success to discipline, hard work and unwavering faith in God, saying every milestone was achieved through persistence rather than shortcuts.
Together with her late husband, Behakanira, she steadily expanded their investments despite financial hardships and personal challenges, eventually building a respected business legacy that continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs across Uganda.
She encouraged young business people to remain patient, honest and focused, emphasizing that sustainable success is built through consistency, resilience and determination.
The celebration became even more emotional as Goodra shared personal testimonies that captivated the audience.
She recalled the difficult period when she and her late husband spent eight years without having a child, describing it as one of the greatest tests of their faith and marriage. She thanked God for eventually blessing their family, calling it one of the greatest miracles in her life.
Goodra also narrated how she narrowly escaped death when a building under construction nearly collapsed on her, saying the incident reaffirmed her belief in God’s protection throughout her life’s journey.
Beyond business, she reflected on her contribution during Uganda’s liberation struggle, revealing that she supported the National Resistance Army (NRA) by supplying logistics to the fighters during the bush war despite the risks involved.
Her testimony drew prolonged applause from guests, many of whom praised her courage, patriotism and resilience.
Among the distinguished guests was Kwagalana Group Chairman Godfrey Kirumira, alongside Cabinet Ministers Hon. Kasule Lumumba and Hon. David Bahati, Members of Parliament, senior government officials and respected business leaders.
The event also welcomed Col. Samson Mande, one of the recognised heroes of the NRA liberation struggle who recently returned from exile, adding historical significance to the occasion.
Throughout the evening, guests congratulated Goodra for her achievements and commended her willingness to share a life story that reflected the power of faith, perseverance and determination.
Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia was among the business leaders who joined in celebrating Goodra’s inspiring journey, highlighting the spirit of unity and mutual support that continues to define Uganda’s investment community.
The thanksgiving concluded with prayers, entertainment and networking among the country’s leading entrepreneurs and policymakers, with Speke Resort Munyonyo once again providing a world-class setting for one of Uganda’s most notable social and business gatherings.
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