‘Afrigo Is Moses Matovu’: John Segawa Questions Band’s Future After Legend’s Death

What the report says

Veteran Ugandan actor, playwright and director John Segawa has raised doubts about whether Afrigo Band can retain its identity and momentum after the death of its longtime leader and co-founder, Moses Matovu. In comments reported by Nile Post, Segawa argued that Matovu was so closely tied to the group that continuing at the same level without him may be difficult. He also suggested that Matovu played a major role not only on stage but in shaping the band’s music and internal discipline.

Segawa compared Afrigo’s situation with other groups that struggled after losing key figures, while saying Matovu was central to keeping the ensemble together. He described Matovu as a defining force in the band’s history and said his influence went beyond performance.

Afrigo Band’s management, however, said the group will continue. Executive director James Wasula said existing bookings will be honoured and that the band remains intact. The management said Matovu spent more than 50 years building a foundation that can support the group going forward, and it urged fans and clients not to lose heart.

According to the report, Matovu, popularly known as “Papa Moi,” died after injuries sustained in an attack in Kibuli, Kampala. Police opened a murder investigation, and court proceedings later charged a private security guard, Vincent Arnold Nsamba, with murder. Matovu was a founding member of Afrigo, formed in 1975, and was widely credited with helping define its sound and long-running place in Ugandan music.