Afrigo Band dances on to Golden Jubilee

At the close of the 1960s, a young man, Moses Matovu; sprung to the limelight. He was so talented and was called on the national soccer team. But, he was also equally talented in music.

 Moses Matovu

He had to make a choice between music and soccer. He chose music, and 50 years later, he is still on tune. If it was to go for soccer, 50 years later, it is highly doubtable he would still be on the soccer pitch; only may be as a technical director of some club.

But, he dodged the Uganda Cranes and ended up in the Cranes Band and sang alongside big names in the trade. By 1974, he had matured and mastered the art, prompting him to start his own band- The Africa Go; which he shortened and formed the acclaimed Afrigo Band.

 The Band in its olden days!

For 45 years, Afrigo had ceaselessly entertained Ugandans recording enduring hits after hits. Afrigo's unequalled staying power has been attributed to Matovu's discipline. (He served in the Uganda Police Force which he joined expressly to access and learn the great wind instruments which the Force had.

After mastering them, he off to make a living in pop music, developing Ugandan Rumba and the distinct Afrigo beat.

Afrigoband-performing-with-Kofi-Olomide

So disciplined is the Afrigo's operation that even the fans know and testify that amorous relations are never entertained amongst band members. Matovu's perpetual Number Two, Charles Sekyanzi, died 10 years ago. Many other original members have also departed the world, including one of Uganda's greatest composers, Godfrey Mwambala. One enduring 'Historical' is Herman Sewanyana, the percussion wizard.

Herman-Ssewanyana-performing

One of the greatest talents to join Afrigo when it was already mature was Joanita Kawalya of the Jim Fame; after her graduation from Kyambogo university in the mid-eighties. Her addition to the band has been invaluable. Rachael Magnolia of the Obangaina fire came later.

Joanita-Kawalya made a mark in the band.

Without mentioning all the people who have played in Afrigo, suffice it to say that whoever makes the grade to perform in the band is very good.

Afrigo band-performing-with-Kofi Olomide

They heavily invested in good equipment.

Moses Matovu, the founder of the band

Moses Matovu mastered his art of instruments

Keep safe, not to miss the Afrigo Gold in 2024! I'm talking about the Golden Jubilee.