Gen Muhoozi Mourns Cedric Babu: ‘I’ve Lost a Loyal and Dependable Friend’

KAMENGO — Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, delivered a deeply personal and emotional tribute on Saturday as he led mourners during the burial of his lifelong friend Cedric Babu Ndilima, who succumbed to a rare iron overload disorder known as hemochromatosis.

Gen. Muhoozi and wife, Charlotte arrived in Kamengo by air.

Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa welcomes Gen. Muhoozi to Kamengo, for Cedric’s burial.

Speaking as chief mourner at the burial in Kamengo, Gen Muhoozi described Cedric as “a loyal friend, rare patriot, and eternal optimist” whose absence has left a painful void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the nation.

“This is a very difficult day for some of us, losing our brother Cedric,” Muhoozi said. “I have known Cedric all my life. All my memories are with Cedric.”

Muhoozi recounted how their friendship began in the 1980s when their families lived in exile in Nairobi, and how they reconnected as teenagers in Kampala at St. Mary’s College Kisubi. 

“Cedric was a talented sportsman. He loved tennis with all his heart. The first time I saw him, he was playing at Lugogo Stadium and was already a very popular tennis player,” Muhoozi recalled.

The CDF revealed intimate details of their final conversation shortly before Cedric’s fatal illness worsened. 

“A few days before he traveled to Kigali, Cedric came to my home in Entebbe and we had a long chat about life, family, and his future plans. Little did I know that was the last time I would see him,” Muhoozi said.

Gen Muhoozi salutes his departed friend

In April, Cedric collapsed while on a trip to Kigali, Rwanda. He was later transferred to Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi for specialized care, where doctors diagnosed him with hemochromatosis—a rare condition that causes excessive iron to accumulate in vital organs.

By the time of diagnosis, his heart, liver, kidneys, and other organs had already sustained extensive damage.

Condition deteriorates 

Despite aggressive medical interventions, including chelation therapy and plans for possible evacuation to the UK for advanced care, Cedric’s condition deteriorated too rapidly.

“I want to thank Captain Francis Babu, Mama Olive Kigongo, Yvette and all the family members who kept me updated and did everything possible to save him,” Muhoozi said.

Former Vice President Specioza Kazibwe attended the ceremony

Gen. Muhoozi greets Cedric’s father, Capt. Francis Babu.

The CDF also praised Cedric’s patriotic spirit, noting how he ventured into politics despite his privileged background.

 “Cedric was different. He believed he must contribute to his country. He contested in the last elections and still had plans to return to politics. That’s what we were discussing the last time I saw him,” Muhoozi disclosed.

Assuring the family of continued support, Muhoozi said: “We, Cedric’s friends, will remain engaged with his children and family because we owe him that.”

PLU members who served alongside Cedric attending the ceremony

“Even though we are deeply saddened, we are grateful to God for allowing us to have Cedric for 50 years. His legacy endures in the lives of his children, in the friendships he made, and the causes he championed. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Cedric’s friends lay wreath on the casket

Cedric’s body was laid to rest on Saturday in Kamengo.

The burial marked the conclusion of a week-long period of national mourning for Cedric Babu — a businessman, sportsman, media executive, and public servant remembered for his courage, generosity, and resilience. Several dignitaries, including former vice presidents, ministers, MPs, business leaders, religious leaders, and members of the diplomatic community, attended the final send-off.