KAMPALA, Uganda — Afrigo Band, one of Africa’s longest-running musical groups, has announced a partnership with CFAO Mobility Uganda ahead of its historic 50th anniversary concert on Aug. 16. CFAO Mobility will serve as the official mobility partner for the “Afrigo at 50 Golden Jubilee” event.
Two members of the band, Executive Director James Wasula and veteran member Herman Ssewanyana, visited the CFAO Mobility showroom on Wednesday. The visit included a tour of the service center and vehicle sales departments, where the musicians praised CFAO’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Patricia Tusuubira, CFAO Mobility’s Marketing and Events Coordinator, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the partnership.
“We are amazed that the Afrigo Band has been able to stay together for 50 years,” Tusuubira said. “Just like Toyota cars and parts are durable and reliable, this brand reflects Afrigo’s remarkable story. This partnership is not just symbolic; it’s a celebration of consistency, strength, and impact over time.”
At a press briefing, Wasula thanked the band’s supporters. “We are very happy and excited to celebrate 50 years of Afrigo,” he said. “Being associated with CFAO Mobility gives us a lot of hope, and it is truly humbling to partner with such a respected corporate brand.”
Aisha Nansamba, representing event organizers Talent Africa, called the milestone historic. “Not every artist group or band stays together for 50 years,” she said. “We are excited for Aug. 16, and we invite the entire country and Africa to join us in celebrating Afrigo Band, the biggest band group on the continent.”
CFAO Mobility also announced a ticket giveaway promotion. Customers who purchase spare parts worth 300,000 Ugandan shillings ($80) or more will be entered into a draw to win free tickets to the concert.
Tickets for the event are on sale, with prices ranging from 50,000 shillings for Bronze up to 10 million shillings for a Platinum table.
Afrigo Band’s Enduring Legacy
Founded in June 1975 amid political turmoil under Idi Amin’s rule, Afrigo Band emerged as a cultural mainstay. Co-founded by Moses Matovu, the band’s name, derived from “Africa” and “go,” symbolized its mission to carry African rhythms forward.
Throughout Uganda’s turbulent history, Afrigo provided a source of comfort and joy. Hits like “Olulimi Lwange” and “Afrigo Batuuse” became household anthems. The band’s ability to adapt its sound and integrate Luganda lyrics while maintaining rich instrumentation helped it remain relevant through the 1980s and into the period of political stability in the 1990s.
The band’s longevity is credited to its commitment to live music and mentoring young musicians, with Matovu often referring to the band as a “school of music.” Despite the loss of several founding members, the band has never disbanded and continues to perform, with its monthly shows at Club Obligato in Kampala frequently selling out.
The 50th-anniversary concert is expected to be a major celebration of this legacy, with plans for collaborations, tributes, a documentary, and a book to commemorate its five-decade journey.
