The final send-off for Silverbacks prospect Michael Makumbi begins today, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, as the nation prepares to bid farewell to one of its most promising basketball talents whose life was cut short at just 22 years old.
Makumbi tragically passed away on April 20 in Winnipeg, Canada, after suffering a blood clot, a development that sent shockwaves through Uganda’s basketball community and beyond.
Described by the Federation of Uganda Basketball Associations (FUBA) as a gifted and dedicated player, Makumbi’s death marked a heartbreaking end to a journey that had only just begun to unfold.
According to the amended funeral program released by the family, a memorial church service will be held on Wednesday afternoon at All Saints Cathedral in Nakasero, starting at 2:00 PM.
Friends, family, teammates, fans, and officials from the sports fraternity are expected to attend and pay their respects to a young man whose talent and humility had captured many hearts.
Later on Wednesday evening, a vigil will be held at the family residence in Najjera, beginning at 6:00 PM.
Makumbi’s body was recently repatriated from Canada following revised flight arrangements, prompting slight changes to the initial funeral schedule.
His final resting place will be in Nakatooke, Bya village, in the Butambala district, where he will be laid to rest on Thursday, May 29. The burial ceremony is set to commence at 12:00 PM.
Born and raised in Uganda, Makumbi attended Ndejje Senior Secondary School from 2016 to 2021, where he first made his mark as a budding basketball talent.
In pursuit of both academic and athletic growth, he moved to Canada shortly after completing his secondary education, and continued to develop his game with remarkable dedication.
He notably represented Uganda at the 2024 FIBA 3×3 Youth Nations League Africa, where he was hailed as one of the standout performers; solidifying his status as a future star for the national men’s team, the Silverbacks.
FUBA, in a public statement, mourned the loss of a player whose work ethic, discipline, and potential promised a bright future for Ugandan basketball.
Teammates and coaches alike have described Makumbi as not only an exceptional athlete but also a humble and respectful young man who inspired those around him.
