Gone too soon – Queen of Katwe actress dead

Uganda’s entertainment industry is in mourning following the death of actress Esteri Tebandeke, widely recognised for her role in Queen of Katwe. She passed away after a prolonged illness associated with kidney complications.

Reports indicate that Tebandeke had been battling the condition for several years, during which she spent extended periods in hospital as her health gradually deteriorated.

Hope briefly emerged in 2022 when she underwent a kidney transplant, with her husband, Samuel Lutaata Tebandeke, generously serving as the donor. The procedure was initially deemed successful, raising optimism about her recovery.

However, her condition later worsened when her body reportedly began rejecting the transplanted kidney, leading to further complications that proved difficult to manage.

In recent months, her health became critical, prompting her admission to the High Dependency Unit at Nakasero Hospital, where she required oxygen support. Her treatment costs are said to have escalated significantly, with daily medical expenses reportedly reaching about Shs 4 million.

Born in 1984, Tebandeke built a name for herself in Uganda’s entertainment scene, initially gaining attention as a video vixen in Singa by Bobi Wine. She later featured in the internationally acclaimed film Queen of Katwe, further solidifying her place in the region’s creative industry.

The Walt Disney Pictures production starred Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o alongside David Oyelowo. Reflecting on her experience in the film, Tebandeke once said it pushed her to embrace even bigger ambitions.

Her passing leaves a significant void in the industry, with fans and colleagues remembering her for her talent, strength, and resilience. Condolences continue to pour in for her family, friends, and all who knew and admired her.