Uganda’s music industry is mourning the death of legendary musician Moses Matovu, the longtime leader, saxophonist, singer and co-founder of Afrigo Band, who died after being attacked in Kibuli, Kampala.

Matovu, 77, was attacked early Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Kibuli Market Zone B in Makindye Division. He sustained serious injuries and was rushed to Kibuli Hospital by a boda boda rider, where he later died. Police have opened a suspected murder investigation into the incident.

According to Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachael Kawala, preliminary investigations indicate that Matovu had gone to the residence of a woman identified as Rose early in the morning. Police said the two were leaving the residence when they were confronted by a man who was previously in a relationship with the woman.

Police said the confrontation may have resulted in a physical fight, although investigators were still working to establish exactly what happened. The male suspect had reportedly been identified but was believed to have fled the scene.

The woman who was with Matovu was arrested and taken into custody to assist police with investigations. Detectives have continued collecting evidence from the scene as they work to reconstruct the events that led to the musician’s death.

Police recovered several exhibits from the scene, including a concrete paver, while bloodstains were also found near Matovu’s vehicle. The evidence is expected to help investigators establish how the fatal confrontation happened.

Earlier reports had indicated that Matovu was attacked by unknown assailants, but further police investigations have since provided more information about the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have not yet concluded the case, and the exact motive and sequence of events remain subject to investigation.

Matovu’s death has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s entertainment industry. He was one of the most recognisable figures in the country’s live-band music tradition and spent nearly six decades contributing to Ugandan music.

Matovu was among the musicians who founded Afrigo Band in Kampala in 1975. He later became the band’s leader, saxophonist, vocalist and composer, helping the group establish itself as one of Uganda’s longest-running and most influential live bands.

Born on June 19, 1949, Matovu began his musical journey in a church choir before joining professional music in the 1960s. He performed with the Thunderbirds Band, the Police Band and later the Cranes Band before becoming one of the founders of Afrigo Band.

His career, spanning almost six decades, made him a respected figure among generations of Ugandan musicians and music lovers. His saxophone performances, songwriting and leadership played an important role in keeping Uganda’s live-band tradition alive.

Following his death, fellow musicians, friends, fans and cultural figures have continued to mourn the celebrated artiste. His contribution to Uganda’s music industry is expected to remain part of the country’s cultural history.

Matovu is scheduled to be laid to rest in Kyanja on Friday, September 25, 2026, following funeral prayers and a vigil held as part of his send-off programme.

As police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding his death, Uganda’s music fraternity has lost one of its most enduring voices and instrumentalists. May his soul rest in peace.