Kamengo, Mpigi District – It was a solemn yet powerful day in Kamengo as family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to lay to rest Cedric Babu Ndilima—former vice chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), media personality, and sports enthusiast—who passed away on May 31 at the age of 50.
The burial, marked by heartfelt tributes and emotional reflections, drew a wide array of mourners, including Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, former Vice President Specioza Wandira and PSFU Chair Humphrey Nzeyi, who spoke on behalf of Cedric’s friends.
In a moving eulogy, Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) Board Chairman Humphrey Nzeyi delivered heartfelt remarks about friendship, legacy, and brotherhood, painting a portrait of a lifelong bond between two families and generations. He recalled how their parents were close friends and how their lives grew in tandem—from playing as boys to marrying and raising families.
“We grew up together… we lived a whole lifetime together. Our parents were friends. We played together as boys, grew into men, married, and raised children—side by side,” Nzeyi said. “None of us imagined life without Cedric.”
Nzeyi emphasised the power of enduring bonds formed over a lifetime, describing their friendship as one built on love, loyalty, and shared growth. He encouraged mourners to cherish the people in their lives who stand by them in both joy and hardship.
“This has taught us about friendships — invest in them, invest in quality friendships,” Nzeyi said.
With his voice occasionally breaking with emotion, Nzeyi turned his message to Cedric’s children: Amani, Cillian and Eshema. Urging them to walk proudly in their father’s footsteps, he described Cedric as a man of “presence, charm, and champion spirit” whose legacy is visible in his children.
“You are your father’s children—his charm, strength, presence, and kindness live on in you. That confidence, that smile, that charm—people see it when you walk into a room. I have every confidence you will succeed because that champion spirit is in your DNA,” recounted Nzeyi.
Nzeyi praised Cedric’s insistence on involving his children in sports, believing it taught them discipline and a winning spirit. He recalled Cedric’s fierce competitiveness on the tennis court and the joy he carried into every space.
“Cedric was a winner. He believed if his children learned to compete, they’d learn to succeed,” Nzeyi noted, adding that one of Cedric’s sons “is going to be something special—you’ll see him on TV someday.”
Nzeyi also had kind words for their mum, Alison. He praised her fierce and unwavering dedication during Cedric’s final days, saying she fought hard and selflessly for his life.
“It took a lady from Ireland to show us the true meaning of loyalty and courage,” he said, acknowledging Alison’s tireless commitment. “In the last six weeks, I saw Alison fight with every fibre of her being for Cedric’s life. You showed us the purest form of love.”
Sportsman, teacher and leader
Veteran politician Capt. Francis Babu, Cedric’s father and former Kampala Central MP, gave a brief but emotional speech, reflecting on the discipline and passion that defined his son.
“He was a sportsman, a teacher, and a leader. Even as a child, Cedric had a strong presence,” Capt. Babu said, adding with a heavy heart, “This house will echo with his memory forever.”
The funeral drew numerous dignitaries and friends from various sectors. Capt. Hon. Dr Mike Mukula, NRM’s Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, was seen sharing a moment with former IGP Gen. Kale Kayihura, both visibly affected by the loss.
Cedric Babu’s legacy spans media, politics, and sports development. A former presenter with UBC and a leader in various youth empowerment initiatives, Cedric was also known for his role in the PLU and for building connections between the government and young Ugandans.
As the sun set over the hills of Kamengo, a quiet peace fell over the gathered mourners. Cedric Babu was laid to rest—not only as a public figure but also as a friend, father, and man who lived with passion, purpose, and deep love for Uganda.