The Chief of Defence Forces of Uganda, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has mourned the passing of Cedric Babu Ndilima with a deeply personal tribute, calling him a brother, close friend, and patriot. Cedric Babu died on May 31, 2025, at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi at the age of 46, following a battle with advanced heart failure.
In his message, Gen. Muhoozi reflected on their long-standing friendship, which began during their school days at St. Mary’s College Kisubi. He described Babu as a gifted all-rounder who excelled in sports, particularly tennis, and later rose to prominence as a businessman, media personality, and public servant.
Cedric once represented Uganda as a Davis Cup tennis player and also served as president of the Uganda Tennis Association. In media, he made his mark with productions such as the acclaimed Ugandan drama Beneath the Lies. He also worked with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), which described him as “a valued member of the UBC family.”
In politics, Cedric boldly contested for the Kampala Central parliamentary seat under the NRM in 2021, winning the primaries but falling short in the general election. Undeterred, he remained active in public service. Gen. Muhoozi appointed him as Vice Chairman for Kampala on the Central Committee of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), where he served until his passing.
“Cedric was an optimist, always thinking about tomorrow, a better tomorrow,” Muhoozi noted, praising his courage, passion, and patriotism.
Cedric collapsed in Kigali, Rwanda, in April while attending a tennis tournament with his son, Cillian. He was later flown to Nairobi and diagnosed with severe heart failure. Doctors recommended a heart transplant, prompting a fundraising campaign for treatment in London.
He is survived by his wife and three sons. His family, in a statement, remembered him as a cherished father, son, brother, and friend. The media and sports fraternities, along with political leaders, continue to mourn a life that touched many and left a legacy of service, optimism, and excellence.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Gen. Muhoozi concluded.
