TAKEAWAYS

• John Segawa says Moses Matovu was the face, disciplinarian and driving force behind Afrigo Band.

• His comments have sparked debate over whether Afrigo can survive without its longtime leader.

• Afrigo Band has reportedly resumed rehearsals ahead of its scheduled shows.

Veteran Ugandan playwright, actor and director John Segawa has advised Afrigo Band to consider disbanding following the death of its long-time leader and co-founder, Moses Matovu.

Matovu, who died on September 24 aged 77, spent more than five decades with Afrigo, becoming the face of the legendary Ugandan band and a key figure in its survival across generations.

Speaking about the band’s future, Segawa said Matovu’s importance went far beyond performing, arguing that he was the disciplinarian and driving force who held the group together.

“It has been Moses Matovu and the Afrigo Band. He is the face of the band. He is the disciplinarian, the director. He’s everything,” Segawa said.

Segawa also questioned whether Afrigo can maintain its identity without Matovu, drawing comparisons with musical groups whose fortunes changed after losing central figures. He cited examples including Ali Campbell and Mowzey Radio in discussions about the difficulties bands face after losing key members.

“I don’t think they will survive, but let’s pray for them to keep it together,” he said.

His remarks have sparked debate among music lovers, with some agreeing that Afrigo’s identity was inseparable from Matovu, while others believe the band’s five-decade history and deep pool of experienced musicians can carry the legacy forward.

Afrigo itself appears determined to continue. The band has reportedly already returned to rehearsals ahead of its scheduled performances, signalling that Matovu’s death will not immediately bring the group’s journey to an end.

Matovu’s colleagues have also described him as the “heartbeat of the Afrigo story,” highlighting the collective effort of musicians, technicians and other crew members behind the band’s longevity.