The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has mourned veteran musician Moses Matovu, describing him as a music icon whose songs were enjoyed by audiences across generations.
In a statement posted on its official X account, the NRM said Matovu died after sustaining injuries in an assault in Kibuli, Kampala, on Thursday.
“The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has learnt with deep sadness the passing of a Live Band music icon, Moses Matovu who succumbed to injuries following an assault in Kibuli,” the party said.
The NRM extended condolences to Matovu’s family, Afrigo Band and the wider music fraternity, saying he would be remembered for music that was popular among both young and older audiences in Uganda and beyond.
The party also called on security agencies to bring those responsible for the musician’s death to justice.
Matovu, 77, was a founding member and longtime leader of Afrigo Band, which was formed in Kampala in 1975. He served as a saxophonist, vocalist, composer and bandleader during a career spanning several decades.
Police said Matovu was attacked at about 5:30 a.m. on September 24 in Kibuli, Makindye Division, and was rushed to Kibuli Hospital after sustaining serious injuries, where he later died. Preliminary investigations indicated that he had been at the residence of a woman before an alleged confrontation with a man believed to have previously been in a relationship with the woman.
Police have since arrested a woman who was with Matovu and identified a male suspect in connection with the incident. The suspect, 41-year-old Vincent Nsamba, was subsequently arrested in Nansana, Wakiso District, according to reports.
The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain under investigation.
Matovu’s death has prompted condolences from Uganda’s music, sports and political communities. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations also mourned him, noting his involvement in football as a former player and SC Villa administrator.
