Moses Matovu, one of the founders of Afrigo Band, Uganda’s longest-lasting and most iconic musical group, and a HiPipo Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award winner, has died after he was allegedly attacked by unknown assailants in Kampala. He was 77 years old.
Police said Matovu was attacked on Thursday morning, September 24, 2026, at Kibuli Market Zone B in Makindye Division, Kampala District. He was rushed to Kibuli Hospital for medical attention, where he later succumbed to his injuries after losing a lot of blood.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala confirmed that Kabalagala Police Station had registered a case of suspected murder involving Matovu.
“Police at Kabalagala have registered a case of suspected murder involving Matovu Moses, a musician with Afrigo Band. Moses was allegedly attacked this morning, 24.09.2026, by unknown assailants at Kibuli Market Zone B, in Makindye Division, Kampala District,” Kawala said.
“Our task team is currently at the scene conducting investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. Efforts are also underway to identify and apprehend the suspected assailants.”
Born on June 19, 1949, Matovu was one of the founders of Afrigo Band, which was founded in 1975. He was central to the formation of the group after the breakup of the Cranes Band. He brought together fellow musicians and helped establish the band, which was officially launched in 1975. Other founding members included Charles Ssekyanzi, Jeff Sewava, Paddy Nsubuga, Paulo Serumagga, Fred Luyombya, Geoffrey Kizito, and Anthony Kyeyune.
Matovu also came up with the name Afrigo, derived from “Africa Go.”
He remained a key figure in the band for five decades, serving as its leader and helping guide its musical direction while nurturing successive generations of musicians. His leadership made him one of the enduring figures in Uganda’s live band music scene.
In 2021, Matovu’s contributions to Uganda’s music industry were recognized with the HiPipo Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring his decades of dedication to live band music and his role in shaping the country’s musical landscape. The award underscored his status as a foundational figure in Uganda’s entertainment history.
The death of Matovu marks the end of an era for Ugandan music. Afrigo Band has been a cornerstone of the country’s entertainment industry for nearly 50 years, known for its unique blend of African rhythms, Congolese influences, and Ugandan traditional music. The band has performed across Africa and beyond, earning a reputation as one of the continent’s finest live acts.
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Uganda’s music industry and beyond, with many describing Matovu as a pioneer, mentor, and cultural icon whose influence transcended generations. The circumstances surrounding his death have shocked the nation, and calls for justice have been swift.
Police have urged anyone with information about the attack to come forward as investigations continue.
