The family, and friends of the late Cedric Ndilima Babu have begun organizing a week-long farewell programme to honour the life and legacy of the prominent media personality, sports administrator, and political figure who passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya.
Cedric Babu, aged 46, succumbed to complications related to severe heart failure.
His passing has left a profound void in the spheres of Ugandan media, sports, and politics.
As planning meetings continue, the tentative programme released by the family provides a detailed timeline of prayer services, vigils, tributes, and funeral rites.
The send-off commenced on Sunday, June 1, with prayers at Cedric’s residence — The Residence, located at Plot 1, Fumu Close in Kololo — beginning at 5:00 PM. At 6:00 PM, friends and family gathered at the same location for an evening of remembrance and fellowship.
Similar arrangements will continue on Monday, June 2, and Tuesday, June 3, with prayers at 5:00 PM and family and friends gathering again at 6:00 PM each evening at the Kololo residence. These gatherings will offer those closest to Cedric an opportunity to reflect on his life and offer support to his loved ones.
On Wednesday, June 4, attention will shift to Naguru, where a Mass will be held at the residence of Captain Francis Babu, Cedric’s father, starting at 6:00 PM. A vigil will follow at 8:00 PM, providing a solemn and spiritual space for mourners to offer prayers and tributes.
Thursday, June 5, will feature a key moment in the farewell programme: a public tribute ceremony organized by the Uganda Sports Council in honour of Cedric’s immense contribution to Ugandan sport, particularly tennis. This tribute will take place at the Lugogo Tennis Complex at 3:00 PM. Later that evening, another Mass will be held at Captain Babu’s residence in Naguru at 6:00 PM, followed again by a vigil at 8:00 PM.
On Friday, June 6, a Requiem Mass will be held at Rubaga Cathedral. The time for the Mass is yet to be confirmed. Following the service, the cortege will proceed to Kamengo, the family’s ancestral home, where a vigil will take place at 6:00 PM.
The final funeral ceremony and burial will be held in Kamengo on Saturday, June 7. The exact time for the service will be communicated once final arrangements are confirmed.
Cedric Babu’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with tributes pouring in from government officials, colleagues in the media and sports fraternity, and ordinary Ugandans who were inspired by his vibrant spirit and patriotism. His contributions as a television host, sportsman, and public servant are deeply etched in the nation’s collective memory.
He is survived by his wife and three sons. Mourners are encouraged to participate in the various events as the nation prepares to lay to rest a man whose impact transcended generations.
Further updates will be provided as planning meetings continue.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
