R.I.P: Queen Of Katwe Actress Dead (Details)

The Ugandan entertainment scene has been thrown into grief following the death of actress Esteri Tebandeke, known for her role in 'Queen Of Katwe'  who succumbed after a long and difficult illness linked to kidney complications.

Reports indicate that the actress had been battling the condition for several years, spending extended periods in hospital as her health steadily declined.

In 2022, there was renewed hope when she underwent a kidney transplant, with her husband, Samuel Lutaata Tebandeke, selflessly stepping forward as the donor. The surgery was initially considered a success, raising optimism about her recovery.

However, her health later took a turn when her body reportedly began rejecting the transplanted organ, leading to further complications that proved difficult to manage.

In recent months, her condition became critical, and she was admitted to the High Dependency Unit at Nakasero Hospital, where she required oxygen support. It is understood that the cost of her treatment had surged significantly, with daily medical expenses reportedly reaching around Shs 4 million.

Born in 1984, Tebandeke made a name for herself in Uganda’s entertainment industry, gaining recognition as a video vixen in Singa by Bobi Wine. She also appeared in the internationally acclaimed film Queen of Katwe, further cementing her place in the region’s creative space.

According to Wikipedia, One of her last film appearances was in the Walt Disney Pictures production Queen of Katwe, starring Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo.^] Speaking about the film, Tebandeke describes the impact that Queen of Katwe has had on her:

"Before the film, I was afraid of my dreams because they were so big. But now I am even more scared, they are bigger."

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