By Spy Uganda
Ugandan music has been plunged into mourning following the death of veteran saxophonist and Afrigo Band musician Moses Matovu, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a suspected attack in Kampala.
Matovu, 77, was allegedly attacked in the early hours of Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Kibuli Market Zone B in Makindye Division, Kampala District, according to police.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Kawala Rachael confirmed that police at Kabalagala had registered a case of suspected murder involving the celebrated musician.
“Moses was allegedly attacked this morning by unknown assailants 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,” Kawala said.
Police said a task team had been dispatched to the scene to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and gather evidence that could lead to the identification of those responsible.
“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,” Kawala added.
Matovu was one of the most recognisable figures in Uganda’s live music scene and a longstanding member of Afrigo Band, one of the country’s most influential musical groups.
He joined the band in its early years and became widely known for his saxophone performances, helping shape the sound that made Afrigo Band a household name across generations of Ugandan music lovers.
His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans and members of Uganda’s entertainment fraternity, who have remembered him for his decades-long contribution to the country’s music industry.
Tributes have also come from public figures, including Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, who called for swift justice for the veteran musician.
The circumstances surrounding Matovu’s death remain under investigation, with police yet to establish the identities of the attackers or the motive behind the suspected assault.
Police have urged anyone with information that could assist investigators to come forward as efforts continue to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Matovu’s death marks a major loss to Uganda’s music industry, coming after decades in which his saxophone and Afrigo Band performances helped preserve and popularise Ugandan music for successive generations.
