Uganda bids farewell to Cedric Babu Ndilima

Uganda on Thursday held a state send-off for late tennis star Cedric Babu Ndilima , who passed away last Saturday at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi. 

The event, held at Lugogo Indoor Arena, was presided over by Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataha Museveni , with the tribute message delivered by State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang . 

Described as “more than an athlete,” Cedric was celebrated not only for his sporting excellence but also for his transformative role in Ugandan sports administration. He played a key role in professionaliSing athletes' earnings, advocating for improved allowances—from $30 to $400 per day for international events—and promoting governance reforms in sports. 

Babu's family lays a wreath

Mrs. Museveni quoted Revelation 14:13 , offering comfort to the family and the sports community. She emphasized Cedric’s lasting impact on Uganda’s sporting landscape. 

Minister Ogwang condemned negative social media comments about the late sports icon and apologised on behalf of the public, describing Cedric as a personal friend and unifier in sports. 

William Blick , an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, reflected on Cedric’s early days at St. Mary’s College Kisubi, where they introduced rugby, and praised his work through Kinetic Sports , which promoted basketball via initiatives like Friday Night Lights . 

Cedric served as team manager for Uganda at the Rio Olympics and was praised for his leadership and peaceful transition of responsibilities. The National Council of Sports (NCS) and various sports federations also honoured his legacy. 

On behalf of the family, Captain Francis Babu  thanked the nation for its support and requested government scholarships for Cedric’s children. He noted that Cedric had fulfilled his father’s wish—“to be better than me”—and inspired many others. 

A requiem mass  will be held today at Rubaga Cathedral at 10:00 am , followed by burial at the family home in Kamengo, Mpigi , this Saturday.