Kampala, Uganda | ENTERTAINMENT | Not even a heavy evening downpour could stop thousands of music lovers, young and old, from flocking to Afrigo Band’s golden jubilee celebration. Uganda’s oldest and most iconic band marked 50 years of musical excellence in a night that blended nostalgia, culture, and pure joy.
The historic concert drew an overwhelming crowd, proving the band’s unmatched legacy. The icing on the cake was a special performance by Congolese music legend Kofi Olomide, whose energetic Ndombolo dances sent fans into a wild frenzy.
A Celebration Beyond the Rain
According to Lois Kwikiriza, Brand and Marketing Manager at Stanbic Bank Uganda, Afrigo’s legacy perfectly aligns with the bank’s purpose: “Uganda is our home, we drive her growth.” She commended the audience for braving the rain, noting that their resilience proved the deep love Ugandans have for Afrigo and local music.
“As Stanbic, we are proud that Ugandans celebrated their very own in a truly Ugandan style,” she added, pledging continued support for events that unite communities through music and culture.
How the Night Unfolded
Despite the cold, the evening got off to a great start. Host Douglas Lwanga kept spirits high as Abeka Band opened with the Buganda Kingdom anthem, before delivering Ugandan classics from Mesach Semakula, Sweet Kid, King Michael, Chance Nalubega, Betty Mpologoma, and others.
By 9 p.m., anticipation reached its peak. Afrigo Band’s veterans—Moses Matovu, Rachel Magoola, and Joanita Kawalya—stepped on stage in sleek black-and-gold attire. They performed timeless hits like Batuuse, Jim, Music, Teri Mubi, Emaali, Olumbe Lw’Obwavu, Obangaina, and Nfunda N’omubi, drawing nonstop cheers and sing-alongs from the crowd.
Later, Kofi Olomide took the stage, storming it with his high-energy performance of “Papa Mobimba,” before thrilling the audience with classics including “Senga,“ “Effrakata,” and “Ekotite.“ The dance floor turned electric as revelers moved tirelessly to his infectious beats.
A Night to Remember
As the clock struck midnight, the skies burst into a dazzling five-minute fireworks display, followed by the official launch of the Afrigo at 50 Commemorative Book. The ceremony was graced by Prince David Wassajja, representing the Kabaka of Buganda, and Hon. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission.
Delivering the Kabaka’s message, Prince Wassajja praised Afrigo Band for its enormous contribution to Ugandan music and culture: “The King is extremely proud of Afrigo and the legacy you have built for our motherland.”
Wrapping up the night, Ali Allybai, CEO of Talent Africa Group, described the event as more than just a concert—it was a celebration of resilience, heritage, and timeless artistry. He applauded Ugandans for showing unwavering support and promised even bigger events in the future.
