By Spy Uganda
Uganda’s richest man and noted philanthropist, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, was among the first and largest contributors to the fundraising campaign for Cedric Babu Ndilima.
Through the Ruparelia family, Dr Sudhir donated £2,500 (approx. Shs12.8 million)—an amount only surpassed by one anonymous donor suspected to be Cedric’s close friend abroad.
Sudhir’s gesture was made more profound as he is still mourning the loss of his own son, Rajiv Ruparelia, who passed away few weeks ago.
In a heartfelt message shortly after Cedric’s death, Sudhir texted our reporter and Chief Spy, Andrew Irumba this;
“Another son of ours has left this world. May Cedric’s soul rest in peace. Here with Rajiv—may they both rest in peace ❤️🙏🏽🌹.”
He also shared a touching image of Cedric sitting alongside Rajiv.
Global Samaritans Rally Behind Cedric in Final Hours
Within less than 48 hours of launching the GoFundMe appeal on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Cedric’s family and friends managed to raise £39,358 (approx. Shs200 million) from 343 contributors around the world.
Other top contributors included:
- Anonymous – £7,417 (top donation)
- Nick Kyrgios – £1,000
- Joseph Gallagher – £1,000
- Leopold Kyanda – £622
- Khambula Msiska – £500
- Multiple anonymous donors – ranging between £500 and £2,000
The campaign had aimed to raise £300,000 (approx. Shs1.5 billion) to cover costs for Cedric’s urgent heart transplant in London.
Cedric Babu Dies Before Campaign Could Reach Target
Cedric Babu, aged 46, passed away in Nairobi, Kenya on the morning of Saturday, June 1, 2025.
His condition had been described as “severe heart failure” when the campaign launched. Sadly, only about 13% of the required funds had been raised before his passing.
His death has sent shockwaves across Uganda, especially in the circles of media, sports, and public service, where he was a familiar and respected figure.
A Testament to Unity, Compassion, and Shared Humanity
While Cedric may not have lived to receive the heart transplant, the love shown by Ugandans and well-wishers across the globe remains a powerful tribute.
Their swift and generous response is a testament to the unity and compassion still alive in humanity.
The legacy of Cedric Babu—and the generosity of people like Sudhir Ruparelia—will live on as examples of giving from the heart, even when hearts are broken.
Here at Spy Uganda we will miss Cedric as a brother and business partner whose’ 22Bet company among other businesses have been among our top advertisers. May his soul rest in peace 🙏🙏
