Prominent Ugandan media personality Cedric Babu Ndilima has died due to heart-related complications, his family confirmed on Saturday.
Babu, who had been battling a severe heart condition, passed away at a hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, where he had been on life support. His health deteriorated earlier this year after he collapsed while on a tour in Rwanda. He was subsequently airlifted to Nairobi and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), pending a heart transplant.
Plans had been underway to transfer him to the United Kingdom for the transplant, with the procedure estimated to cost UGX 1.5 billion. A nationwide fundraising campaign was launched to raise the necessary funds, attracting support from Ugandans at home and abroad, as well as members of the media industry.
Despite the widespread support and medical efforts, Babu died on Saturday morning. His death has sent shockwaves across the country, with tributes pouring in from government officials, celebrities, colleagues, and fans who described him as a trailblazer in Uganda’s media and entertainment sectors.
Cedric Babu was widely respected for his charisma, leadership, and contributions to the development of local media. In addition to his media career, he also served in various leadership roles, including public service and sports administration.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family in due course.
