Jako David Waluluka
As Uganda’s signature band, Afrigo edges towards celebrating half a century of entertaining Ugandans later this year, the gift that its leader Moses Matovu aka Papa Moi, would wish for is the realization of establishing a fully fledged music school to nature talent.
Papa Moi, in a rare emotionally charged interview with a local media entity, stated that, unlike yesterday years, when pursuing a talent-based career like music was frowned upon, the time has since proved that it is a worthy investment where one is assured of reaping respectable financial benefits with time.
He affirms that with the right professional training from a talent school, like the one he envisages, any talented individual with a zeal to learn would eventually craft a solid foundation to enhance their livelihood.
Under the backdrop of a huge pool of funds needed to realize this dream, Papa Moi, risks not achieving his goal any time soon given his limited resources unless the government through the ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social well-fare the line ministry comes in handy.
It should be noted that Afrigo Band, at one time had tried to invest in their own home in Kajjansi, but miscalculated on the project’s financial viability, which later forced them to return to their ‘Bat Valley’ ‘mubumuli’ Little Flowers base.
As the years have passed, Afrigo Band once with the prestige of only performing at vintage selected venues, like their home ( Bat-Valley) and maybe at the Kibuli premised rehearsal hub,has had to evolve with the times by now performing anywhere as long as the client meets its asking price to stay in business.
The origins of the Afrigo Band trace back to The Cranes, one of Uganda’s most popular bands during the sixties and early seventies. Following the release of their hit album “Ten Hits” in 1974, The Cranes disbanded due to internal conflicts.
In the aftermath, several former members, including Moses Matovu, formed the Afriraha Band. This group’s name was later changed to Afrigo (meaning “Africa go forward”) in August 1975.
The founding members were Moses Matovu, Jeff Ssewava, Charles Ssekyanzi, Paulo Sserumaga, Paddy Nsubuga, Fred Luyombya, Anthony Kyeyune, and Geoffrey Kizito. Except for Matovu and Jeff Ssewava, who now resides in Germany, all original members have since passed away.
The band officially debuted on November 1, 1975, performing at the Bat Valley bar/restaurant.
The date and venue for this year s celebrations in Uganda are yet to be confirmed however, there will be one at the Royal Regency Banquet Hall, with Winnie Nwagi as the curtain raiser on 20th September 2025, in London fully sponsored by Richmondz Promoz UK.
