Alhaji Faruk Kirunda, Special Presidential Assistant–Press and Mobilisation and Deputy Press Secretary to the President of Uganda, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran musician Moses Matovu. Matovu, a celebrated member of Afrigo Band, was killed on September 24, 2026, in Kampala. Kirunda described Matovu as an "irreplaceable gem" whose contribution to Uganda's music industry spanned decades. He noted that Matovu's death occurred at a particularly painful time for Uganda's music fraternity, following the recent death of fellow veteran playwright Alex Mukulu.
Matovu began performing in the 1960s and had maintained a distinctive musical style and high standards throughout his career. According to Kirunda, Matovu's unique style and standard, free of controversy, had mentored many younger musicians. His legacy at Afrigo Band has been praised, with Kirunda describing him as a major attraction. Matovu's impact on Uganda's music industry has been significant, with his musical journey spanning over five decades.
The circumstances surrounding Matovu's death have been condemned by Kirunda, who stated that the musician's killers had deprived the country of a valuable cultural figure. He extended his condolences to Matovu's family, Afrigo Band, his fans, and Ugandans at large. The nation is yet to come to terms with the shock of Matovu's death, which has sent ripples through Uganda's music industry.
Tributes have been pouring in for Matovu, one of the country's longest-serving musicians and a prominent figure in the history of Afrigo Band. His death has been met with sadness, with many paying tribute to his musical legacy. Matovu's impact on Uganda's music scene will be remembered for years to come.
Alhaji Kirunda's message on X, formerly Twitter, expressed his sadness over Matovu's death, stating that the country had lost an irreplaceable figure. He emphasized that Matovu's legacy would live on, inspiring younger musicians to emulate his standards. Kirunda's sentiments were echoed by many who have been impacted by Matovu's music.
Moses Matovu's death has left a void in Uganda's music industry, with many calling for increased security measures to protect the country's cultural figures. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of musicians and artists in the country. Authorities have yet to comment on the investigation into Matovu's death.
The Ugandan music industry has lost a legendary figure in Moses Matovu, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians to come. Alhaji Kirunda's tribute to Matovu serves as a testament to the impact he had on the country's music scene. Matovu's memory will live on through his music and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
Key points
- Alhaji Faruk Kirunda praises Moses Matovu's musical legacy and impact on Uganda's music industry.
- Moses Matovu was killed on September 24, 2026, in Kampala, Uganda.
- Matovu's death has sent shockwaves through Uganda's music industry, with tributes pouring in for the veteran musician.