While most Ugandans know the Ruparelia Group for its grand hotels, real estate empire and education institutions, few realise that one of its most far-reaching business successes lies quietly in the country’s flower farms. Through Rosebud Limited and Premier Roses, the Group has built one of Uganda’s most influential agricultural export operations a supply chain that connects the soils of Wakiso directly to the flower auctions of Amsterdam.
Located along the Entebbe Road corridor, the farms operate some of the most advanced floriculture facilities in the region, producing millions of stems each week for international markets. Their roses are exported primarily to Europe, the Middle East and parts of Asia, contributing significantly to Uganda’s foreign exchange earnings and strengthening the country’s reputation in global horticulture.
Industry analysts say that while floriculture may not command the public glamour of hotels or luxury apartments, it is one of the Group’s most important economic contributions. The farms employ thousands of workers, most of them women, who are trained in modern horticultural practices, quality grading, post harvest handling and export level packaging standards. The jobs created have transformed local communities, offering consistent income in areas where formal employment is often limited.
Beyond employment, the farms also play a crucial role in technology transfer. Their greenhouses, irrigation systems, and meticulous crop management techniques have helped raise the bar for Uganda’s floriculture sector. Exporters note that the Group’s investment in quality control from pest management to cold chain preservation which has enabled Ugandan roses to compete with those from Kenya, Ethiopia and Ecuador.
Over the years, the farms have weathered market fluctuations, droughts and logistical disruptions, yet remain among the country’s most resilient exporters. Their operations have become essential supply anchors for European buyers who depend on East Africa for a steady flow of fresh cut flowers, especially during peak seasons like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.
Experts say that the significance of Rosebud and Premier Roses extends far beyond the flower auctions. By sustaining large scale agricultural exports, the operations support Uganda’s balance of trade, stimulate rural economies and demonstrate the potential of agribusiness as a major pillar of national development.