The prime suspect in the death of musician Moses Matovu has been arrested in Uganda. The death of the Afrigo Band co-founder has prompted tributes from across the country’s music industry.
Ugandan police have arrested the prime suspect in the death of Moses Matovu, a prominent figure in Uganda’s live music scene and co-founder of Afrigo Band.
According to police, the suspect, identified as 41-year-old Vincent Nsamba, was arrested in Nansana, Wakiso District, following an operation involving investigators and intelligence officers. Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the musician’s death.
Moses Matovu died on September 24 in Kampala after reportedly sustaining serious injuries during an altercation in the Kibuli area of Makindye Division. He was taken to Kibuli Hospital, where he later died.
A career spanning nearly six decades
Born in Kampala in 1949, Matovu began his musical career in the 1960s. He performed with several groups, including the Thunderbirds Band, Police Band and Cranes Band, before helping establish Afrigo Band in 1975.
With Afrigo Band, he became known as a singer, saxophonist, composer and bandleader. The group went on to become one of Uganda’s best-known and longest-running live bands.
Over a career spanning nearly six decades, Matovu helped preserve Uganda’s live-band tradition and pass it on to younger generations.
Tributes from Uganda’s cultural scene
Since news of his death emerged, musicians and other figures in Uganda’s entertainment industry have paid tribute to Matovu.
Daily Monitor also highlighted another side of his life: his long-standing passion for football. He played for several clubs during his youth and remained connected to the sport throughout his life.
Matovu was scheduled to be buried in Kyanja on September 25, according to Daily Monitor.
Police investigation continues
Police say investigations are continuing into the circumstances of the altercation that preceded Matovu’s death.
A woman identified as Rose was also arrested to assist investigators. Police said Matovu had been with her before the incident and that the prime suspect was allegedly involved in a confrontation with the musician. These details remain part of the ongoing police investigation.
The death of Moses Matovu marks the loss of one of the most enduring figures in Uganda’s live music tradition, as fellow musicians, relatives and fans continue to pay tribute to his contribution to the country’s cultural life.
SOURCES
- Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC)
- Daily Monitor
- Uganda Police Force, as cited by UBC and Daily Monitor