Harish Jagtani: Building an Legacy in the DRC with Vision, Grit, and Humility

Harish Jagtani. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), his name has become synonymous with entrepreneurial excellence. Originally from Rajasthan, India, Jagtani is the visionary behind the HJ Group of Companies, a sprawling, diversified legacy that spans healthcare, aviation, construction, and more. 

From humble beginnings to a powerful business legacy rooted in Congo-Kinshasa, Harish Jagtani journey is a testament to resilience, daring ambition, and unshakable purpose. 

  

A Dream That Took Flight 

Harish Jagtani success story began not with privilege, but with perseverance. Arriving in the DRC with modest means and a bold vision, he carved out his place in the country’s economic landscape. His first major milestone was observed in 2003, when he launched Service Air, later rebranded as Serve Air. 

Leveraging his extensive experience in air freight, Jagtani positioned Serve Air as a game-changer in Congolese logistics. Today, the company stands as the market leader in air cargo, trusted by commercial entities, NGOs, and public institutions alike, including the national electoral commission, CENI. 

The vision is boldly declared by the company’s 230 employees: 

“To be the best in operations, the best in the airline industry, and the best in its system with exemplary values and ethics.” 

In a country the size of a continent, where transporting goods remains a major logistical challenge, Serve Air has become an essential pillar of the nation’s economic engine. 

  

A Healthcare Vision: HJ Hospital 

Perhaps one of Jagtani’s most celebrated contributions to Congolese society is HJ Hospital, launched in 2016. Born from a desire to elevate healthcare standards, the hospital has rapidly grown into a symbol of modern, accessible, and affordable medical care in Kinshasa. 

HJ Hospital now boasts several branches across the capital and is equipped with advanced medical technology to deliver high-quality care across a range of specialties including complex surgeries, orthopedics, ophthalmology, cardiology, and oncology. 

More than just a facility, HJ Hospital represents a new era in healthcare for the DRC. It blends global medical best practices with a deep commitment to community wellness, reflecting Jagtani’s vision of giving back to his adopted homeland. 

Real Estate, Infrastructure & a Nation-Building Mindset 

In addition to healthcare and aviation, Harish Jagtani’s influence extends into real estate, construction, and national infrastructure. Through Modern Construction, one of his latest ventures, Jagtani is playing a key role in reshaping Kinshasa’s urban landscape. 

From residential high-rises to commercial landmarks like the Congo Trade Center, a massive shopping complex overlooking the Congo River his projects combine sleek design with international architectural standards. 

An engineer at Modern Construction proudly states: 

“Our structures reflect our mentality and our mission. They denote our aspiration: to make our dreams come true through our expertise and dedication. We ensure superior quality and, above all, work that is now recognized and appreciated by our clients.” 

With a strong emphasis on utilizing local talent and empowering communities, Modern Construction is not only transforming skylines but also contributing to the growth of a robust Congolese middle class. 

A Future Fueled by Innovation and Purpose 

For Harish Jagtani, success is not a destination but an evolving journey. With deep roots in the DRC and a spirit that remains as driven as ever, he continues to explore new ideas, ventures, and partnerships each aligned with his mission to support the country’s development. 

His legacy is not just in the businesses he has built, but in the opportunities, he continues to create for thousands of Congolese people. 

The DRC is not just where Harish Jagtani does business. It is his second homeland and his enduring commitment to its progress is evident in every project he undertakes.