Afrigo Band brought its timeless classics to Masaka last Saturday in an emotional tribute to its late founder, Moses Matovu, as his son Ibra Matovu took centre stage for the first time in the town as the group’s lead singer.
The performance at Garden Courts Hotel marked a significant moment for the legendary Ugandan band. It was their first show in Masaka since Matovu, affectionately known to many fans as Papa Moi, died on September 24, 2026.
Founded by Moses Matovu in 1975, Afrigo Band has remained one of Uganda’s longest-standing musical groups. Through its distinctive blend of traditional African rhythms, Congolese Rumba and Jazz, the band has built a catalogue that continues to connect with generations of music lovers.
Songs such as Afrigo Batuuse and Speed have entertained audiences while also carrying messages about everyday life, including road safety. Much of the band’s appeal has come from its ability to combine familiar Ugandan sounds with music that audiences across different age groups can enjoy.
By 8pm, Garden Courts Hotel was almost full, with fans travelling from different parts of Masaka and surrounding areas to witness the performance. The evening also attracted a mixture of younger and older music lovers, reflecting the band’s enduring appeal.
Johnnie Walker, the event’s main sponsor, supported the evening. Brand Manager Raymond Raph Karama said the occasion was an opportunity to celebrate Matovu’s contribution to Uganda’s music industry.
“Moses Matovu’s contribution to Uganda’s music industry is a legacy worth celebrating. He kept walking, one step at a time and built a legacy that will live many years after him. We are proud to be part of an evening that honours his impact,” Karama said.
The entertainment began with politician and musician Eddie Yawe, a regular collaborator with Afrigo Band. He performed some of his popular songs, including Tukigale and Kati Onoba, before turning to classics such as Sammy Kasule’s Ozze Munange and Ekitobero.
The spotlight then shifted to Ibra, who stepped onto the Masaka stage carrying the responsibility of continuing his father’s musical legacy.
Dressed in a floral cream-and-black shirt, blue trousers and his father’s signature fangaroo hat, Ibra opened with the iconic line from Oswadde Nyo, one of Afrigo Band’s best-known songs, also popularly referred to by some fans as Sikulimba.
The audience responded with loud cheers, giving the new frontman an encouraging reception as he settled into the performance.
He went on to deliver a selection of the band’s much-loved songs, including Twali Twagalana, Sirina and the energetic Afrigo Batuuse, keeping fans engaged throughout the night.
However, the tribute was not just about the lead singer. Other members also played their part in bringing the band’s familiar sound to life. Sewanyana kept the energy high on the kongas, while Rachel Magoola and Joanita Kawalya provided backing vocals and took turns at the lead.
Magoola performed Obangaina, while Kawalya delivered Jim, giving the audience further reminders of the depth of Afrigo Band’s musical catalogue.
As the performance came to an end, some fans were still singing along, with a few turning their golden Johnnie Walker cups into makeshift microphones.
For Masaka, the evening was more than another Afrigo Band performance. It was an opportunity to celebrate Moses Matovu’s contribution to Ugandan music while witnessing a new chapter for the group, with Ibra stepping forward in a role once occupied by his father.