A Tribute to fallen former Cranes player O’Brien Matsiko Tindimwebwa who passed away on Friday 1st May 2026 following a road accident while on his motorcycle. A true son of Ugandan Rugby whose passion, skill, and leadership illuminated the sport for decades. From schoolboy stardom to national team honours, pivotal administrative roles, an adventurous life on the motorbike, and long times of laughter with friends at various Rugby ground sidelines. OB as commonly known embodied the grit, courage, and glory of our game.
A Stellar Schoolboy Career
Tindimwebwa’s journey began at St. Mary’s College, Kisubi (1996-1997), before exploding at Namilyango College from 1998-2001. He helped secure 2x Schools Premiership titles in 2000 and 2001, the 2001 National Schools Sevens Championship, and a runner-up finish at the 2001 Safari Sevens Schools Tournament. Part of Namilyango’s legendary 1996-2001 class, he shared the pitch with future stars like Captain Timothy Mudoola, Simon Wakabi, Proffessor Stone Luggya, Samuel Rubanga, and Steven Ogwete among others who later dominated at Kampala Old Boys (KOBs) RFC, and the National team.
Club and National Glory
Transitioning from hooker to fly-half, Tindimwebwa lit up club rugby:
- 2001-2002: KOBs II
- 2002-2003: Kampala Old Boys (KOBs)
- 2003-2004: @Uganda_Sevens
- 2004-2008: Heathens RFC
His honours include 2x Rugby Premiership Championships (2003, 2004), the 2004 Uganda Cup, and 3x National Sevens Series titles (2004, 2005, 2007).
On the international stage, he played in the first ever Rugby Cranes Sevens Squad at George Sevens in South Africa, 12-13th December 2003, Dubai Sevens (UAE, 2004), Safari Sevens (Kenya, 2004).
In 2005, he earned a test cap against Zimbabwe in Harare as part of the 38 player squad prepping for the Rugby Africa Top 9 Tournament.
Leadership Beyond the Pitch
Tindimwebwa’s impact extended to administration:
- Coaching Team at @BuffaloesRFC (2014)
- Chairman, Kyadondo Rugby Playing Committee (2016)
- Technical Director, Rugby Africa Cup Pool C (2021)
- Mentor
- Active participant with the Uganda Rugby Legends
His versatility and dedication inspired generations, proving rugby is as much about building the game as playing it. With young leaders in the community sharing experiences from his helping hand.
O’Brien Matsiko Tindimwebwa leaves an indelible mark on Ugandan Rugby, a father, husband, brother, friend, teammate, adventurer, and leader that contributed greatly to the development of Rugby in Uganda, and the wellbeing of people around him.
Obrien Matsiko Tindimwebwa was laid to rest today (5th, May 2026) in Rukungiri district. Rest In Peace, Legend. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, fellow Cranes, and Riders community.