Biography: Who is Kigambo Araali, the Fallen Tooro Music Icon?
His legacy will live on through his music, which continues to inspire and educate future generations.
Fort Portal: Kigambo Araali Moses, known as a beloved music icon from Tooro, was born on 1st March 1977 in Kyenjojo Nyakabara Kijuma Ward, Kyenjojo Town Council, Mwenge South Kyenjojo District, Western Uganda.
He was married with four children and hailed from the Abasiita Clan with the totem Obusito.
He was a proud Mutooro by nationality and spoke and wrote excellently in Runyoro Rutooro, along with proficiency in English, Luganda, and Swahili.
Kigambo Araali attained his Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) certificate at Nyantungo Primary School in 1992. However, he did not continue with formal education. Instead, he pursued vocational training in motorcycle and motor vehicle mechanics and later in entrepreneurship.
Kigambo Araali was a renowned Folk-Pop and Fusion music artist who dedicated his life to music. He began his career in 2002 and released several albums, each exploring themes such as culture, society, politics, and personal experiences.
His works resonated deeply with the people of Tooro and Uganda at large. Below is a summary of his albums:
| Year | Album Title | Description |
| 2003 | Akadaara | Focused on youth talent and the importance of land, with the popular song “Itaka Kintu Kikuru” (The land is of great importance). |
| 2005 | Twekobe | Addressed political struggles, with a hit song “Ekitukufeera” (What we are struggling for). |
| 2007 | Ekirale | The title track “The Legacy” explored the concept of legacy and leadership. |
| 2009 | Otalyebw’omuka | The title track “Never forget home” called on people to return to their roots. |
| 2012 | Ekibiri Kinu | Taught the value of self-trust, with a powerful message “Never trust your body.” |
| 2015 | Ekacoliikwa Kara | Celebrated the natural beauty and tourism potential of Tooro, the pearl of Africa. |
| 2017 | Tooro K’okasemera | Praised the beauty of Tooro, describing it as “the pearl of Africa.” |
He was based in Fort Portal, serving as the Talents Development Director of Engabu za Tooro (Tooro Youth Platform for Action), a cultural NGO accredited by UNESCO’s ICH Convention. Prior to this, he worked as a Cultural Troupe Manager and Talent Development Officer, leading the troupe to several key achievements, including:
- In 2004, the troupe placed 4th in the National Music Dance and Drama competition organized by the Uganda Development Theatre Association (UDTA).
- In 2005, the troupe hosted the German Big Band Orchestra in Fort Portal as part of a cultural exchange program funded by the German Embassy.
- The troupe pioneered weekly community theatre in the western region, a practice that continues today.
Awards and Recognition:
Kigambo Araali’s immense contribution to music and culture earned him numerous awards and accolades, such as:
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards – “Best Cultural Artiste of the Year 2007.”
- Pearl of Africa Music Awards – “Best Western Artiste of the Year 2008.”
- East Africa KISIMA Music Award (2008) – “Best Video Uganda.”
- Rotary International Vocational Award (2009) for integrating development themes in the entertainment industry.
- Tooro eyanyenkya hati Gold Medal (2015).
- The Uganda Music Award (TUMA Award) – “Best Regional Artist 2017 Western.”
- Media Practitioner Award (2018) presented by the Rt. Rev. Robert K Muhiirwa, Bishop of Fort Portal Diocese.
- Bunyoro Kitara Basiita Clan Appreciation Souvenir from Bishop George William Kasangaki (2015).
His Death:
Kigambo Araali tragically passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 38 after being admitted to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital (Buhinga Hospital).
His death leaves a deep void in the music world and in the hearts of his fans. He is remembered for his soulful, educational music, which addressed social issues and celebrated his heritage.
His legacy will live on through his music, which continues to inspire and educate future generations.
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