By our Reporter
Kampala | Saturday, May 31, 2025 — Uganda is in mourning following the death of prominent media personality and former tennis star Cedric Babu, who passed away Saturday in a Nairobi hospital while battling heart complications.
Babu, the son of retired Captain Francis Babu, died at a time when a nationwide campaign was underway to raise UGX 1.5 billion for a life-saving heart transplant. The news was confirmed by family sources and close associates, as reported by veteran journalist Stephen Otage.
His death has cast a harsh spotlight on the persistent and systemic challenges facing Uganda’s health sector, particularly in the area of specialized care. Like many Ugandans with complex medical conditions, Babu had to seek treatment abroad, underscoring the country’s limited capacity to manage advanced cardiac cases.
A Life of Talent and Influence
Cedric Babu rose to fame in the early 2000s as one of Uganda’s top tennis players before transitioning into the media and entertainment industry, where he made a name as a television host, events organizer, and entrepreneur. He was also known for his efforts to mentor young talent and was actively involved in youth empowerment initiatives.
Born to one of Uganda’s most recognizable political and military families, Cedric carved out his own identity—distinguished by charisma, intellect, and a deep passion for public service. In recent years, he had also ventured into politics and civic activism, advocating for better governance and youth inclusion in national decision-making.
A Broken Health System
Cedric’s untimely death is yet another painful reminder of the vulnerabilities in Uganda’s healthcare system. Despite being a public figure with access to networks and platforms, he could not get the urgent surgery he needed within the country—a reality that thousands of ordinary Ugandans face every year.
Uganda’s public hospitals remain chronically underfunded, with shortages in essential drugs, equipment, and specialized medical personnel. While private hospitals offer better care, they remain unaffordable for the vast majority of citizens. Cardiac care, in particular, is severely limited, often requiring patients to seek treatment in India, Kenya, or South Africa.
Critics argue that the continued loss of lives due to treatable conditions is a result of the government’s failure to prioritize healthcare infrastructure and human resource development. Uganda’s national referral hospital, Mulago, has made some strides with its Uganda Heart Institute, but access remains out of reach for many in need of urgent interventions.
A Wake-Up Call
As condolences pour in from all corners of the country, Cedric Babu’s death is not just a personal tragedy—it is a national alarm bell. His passing has reignited calls for reforms in Uganda’s health sector, especially in areas of specialist care and emergency preparedness.
His legacy, however, will live on in the hearts of many Ugandans who admired his spirit, talent, and tenacity.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
