Tycoon Dr Sudhir Ruparelia has added another landmark attraction to Speke Resort Munyonyo with the unveiling of a new luxury Pool Pavilion, setting a fresh standard for leisure and entertainment along the shores of Lake Victoria this festive season.
The new facility elevates the resort’s iconic Olympic-sized pool — Kampala’s only one since 2000 — into a modern lifestyle and entertainment space. Guests can now enjoy shaded cabanas, infinity-style water features, premium lounge beds and personalised cocktail service, all designed to create a high-end lakeside experience.
Reflecting on the resort’s growth, Sudhir said the pavilion represents how far Munyonyo has come from the early 2000s, when the area was still an undeveloped lakeside stretch. He recalled that what began as a family retreat with a small pool under mango trees has evolved into one of East Africa’s most prestigious hospitality destinations.
Covering an additional 5,000 square feet, the open-air pavilion can comfortably host up to 500 guests. It is built to accommodate live bands, corporate events, social gatherings and luxury parties, and connects smoothly with the resort’s existing sports, wellness and conference facilities. The expansion comes just in time for festive celebrations and the busy 2026 events calendar.
The launch also aligns with new seasonal packages targeting both Ugandan holidaymakers and international travellers. Tourism analysts say the pavilion will strengthen Kampala’s nightlife and conference appeal, contributing to Uganda’s target of reaching four million annual visitors by 2030.
Environmental activists have, however, called for continued monitoring of the development’s impact on Lake Victoria’s ecosystem, especially the bird habitats surrounding the 90-acre resort. In response, Ruparelia Group says the pavilion operates on solar energy and zero-waste systems and meets all Uganda Tourism Board environmental standards.
