Sporting a flipped cap, camouflage shirt, grey trousers, a sleek black watch and bracelet combo, and a shiny ring on his middle finger, Cedric Babu exuded effortless style and confidence.
In a recent video shared by journalist Alan Kasujja on X (formerly Twitter), Babu is seen cheerful and carefree, humming along to a nostalgic tune at a Kampala bar. The clip, now widely circulated, is a snapshot of happier times—memories shared by friends following the heartbreaking news of his death at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi.
From heartfelt social media posts, it’s evident Babu lived a vibrant life surrounded by prominent figures. In sports, he was close with national football legends like Ibra Sekajja and David Obua. In business circles, he mingled with the late Rajiv Ruparelia. Politically, he shared a bond with Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces.
“Cedric wasn’t the type to keep company with underachievers,” recalls senior sports journalist Innocent Ndawula, a long-time friend. Babu’s life was a whirlwind of ambition—flourishing in sports, media, politics, and business. Ndawula fondly remembers Babu returning from a short stint in the U.S. in 2000, already speaking with a heavy American accent—symbolic of his hunger for growth and transformation.
Born in Kenya into a family steeped in Uganda’s public life, Cedric was the son of Capt. Francis Babu, a former minister and pilot, and Olive Zaitun Kigongo, a notable businesswoman.
Champion for Tennis and Sports Development
Cedric was a celebrated national tennis player who reignited Uganda’s tennis scene as the ITF Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) coordinator after the Uganda Tennis Association (UTA) rejoined the International Tennis Federation in 2017.
Alvin Bagaya, UTA’s general secretary, credits Cedric’s vision for helping rebuild grassroots tennis through school programs, coaching development, and international competitions like the Davis Cup. “His belief in the JTI laid a strong foundation for Uganda’s tennis resurgence,” Bagaya said, noting that Cedric’s leadership contributed to Uganda topping junior tennis rankings in East Africa.
Cedric also mentored local talents such as Duncan Mugabe and David O’Ringa, always blending his privileged background with a deep connection to the grassroots community. “He never acted entitled. He hustled like the rest of us,” Ndawula emphasized.
His presidency of UTA until 2022 left a lasting legacy, especially with the rise of his own son, Cillian, who recently represented Uganda in continental tennis championships.
Political Aspirations and National Service
In 2021, Cedric entered politics, contesting for the Kampala Central parliamentary seat under the NRM banner. Though he lost to incumbent Muhammad Nsereko, he remained politically active. He became vice chairman for Central Uganda in the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a pressure group linked to Gen Muhoozi.
Gen Muhoozi mourned his close friend, saying Cedric “stood out among his peers,” with excellence in sports, business, and patriotism. “Unlike many elite children who avoid politics, Cedric bravely participated in Uganda’s governance,” he wrote.
Cedric’s political engagement reflected his family roots—his father being a known NRM mobiliser and political commentator. He also applied his leadership skills in sports management and entertainment branding through the Kinetic Management Group, working to link local talent with opportunities in East Africa.
State Minister for Youth and Children, Balaam Barugahara, remembered him as a disciplined professional. “He always arrived first and left meetings early—he valued time and focus,” he said.
Final Days and Farewell
In his final weeks, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise £300,000 for a heart transplant in London. By the time of his passing, just over £39,000 had been raised. Cedric died at 46, leaving behind a wife and three sons who, like their father, are passionate about sports.
He will be laid to rest in Kamengo, Mpigi District, this Saturday.
Gen Muhoozi’s Tribute
“Cedric Babu was not only a friend but a comrade in our national journey,” Gen Muhoozi said. “He excelled in everything he touched—sports, business, and politics. His optimism and courage will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a beautiful family and a legacy of excellence. We shall miss him deeply. May his soul rest in peace.”
