Uganda’s music fraternity is in mourning following the death of Moses Matovu, the legendary saxophonist, vocalist, composer and long-time leader of Afrigo Band. Matovu, popularly known as Papa Moi, died on the morning of Thursday, 24 September 2026, at Kibuli Hospital in Kampala. He was 77.
Police confirmed that Matovu was attacked early that morning at Kibuli Market Zone B in Makindye Division. He was rushed to hospital by a boda boda rider but succumbed to his injuries. Kampala Metropolitan Police registered the case as suspected murder and launched an investigation.
What Police Say Happened
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police, preliminary findings point to a physical altercation linked to a personal dispute. Officers said Matovu went to a woman’s residence around 5:30 a.m. As he and the woman were leaving, they were confronted by a man who had previously been in a relationship with her. A fight followed, during which Matovu sustained severe injuries.
The woman who was with him was arrested to assist with investigations. Police identified the male suspect, who reportedly fled the scene. Earlier reports had described the incident as an attack by unknown assailants, with some accounts saying Matovu was on his way to morning prayers at a mosque. Investigations continue to establish the full circumstances.
A Musical Giant
Born on 19 June 1949 in Kawempe, Kampala, to Abdallah Bukenya and Solome Nakitto, Matovu began singing as a child in the Namirembe Cathedral choir. He attended Namirembe Primary School and later Kibuli and Pillai’s Secondary Schools before focusing fully on music and football.
He entered professional music in 1967 as a vocalist with Thunderbirds Band, then moved to the Police Band in 1968 and Cranes Band in 1969. After Cranes Band broke up, Matovu and fellow musicians formed Afrigo Band in 1975 (some accounts date the beginnings to 1974). The group, whose name blends “Africa” and “go,” became Uganda’s longest-running and most celebrated live band.
For more than five decades Matovu served as Afrigo’s leader, main saxophonist, lead vocalist and key composer. The band’s catalogue includes enduring hits such as Sirina Anantwala Leero, Jim, Obangaina, Sikulimba, Abaana ba Afrigo, Speed Control, Mundeke, Twali Twagalana, Nantongo and many others. Afrigo performed across Uganda, East Africa, Europe, the United States and beyond, keeping live band music alive through political turmoil, changing tastes and technological shifts.
Before fully committing to music, Matovu was also a footballer, turning out for sides including Nakivubo Boys, Express FC, Police FC and others. He later served SC Villa in administrative roles, including as a trustee.
Legacy
Matovu’s death comes as Afrigo Band approached or had recently marked 50 years. He mentored generations of musicians and remained the steady face of Uganda’s live-band tradition long after many peers had left the stage. Fans, fellow artists and officials have paid tribute to a man who helped define the soundtrack of modern Uganda.
Police continue to pursue the male suspect and investigate the exact sequence of events. Funeral arrangements were reported for Kyanja. Uganda has lost one of its most enduring musical voices.
Rest in peace, Papa Moi.