Veteran Ugandan singer David Sifayo, popularly known as Master Parrot, has died after being involved in a road accident in Kampala, adding to the growing toll of road fatalities in the East African country.
According to preliminary reports, the musician was struck by a speeding motorcycle on Monday (June 1, 2026) evening while attempting to cross the Northern Bypass in the Masanafu area, a busy section of Kampala’s road network. Details surrounding the accident were still scanty.
Master Parrot was among Uganda’s most celebrated music artists during the late 1990s and early 2000s, earning nationwide fame through hit songs like Muliro, and Ekikompola among others.
His energetic performances and distinctive style helped shape Uganda’s contemporary music industry during a formative period for the country’s entertainment sector.
He was also one of the pioneering members of Firebase Crew, the influential music group founded by Ugandan musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine. Although he later left the group, Master Parrot reunited with Firebase Crew in 2017 and marked his return with a remix of his hit song Muliro alongside Mickie Wine.
His death comes at a time when Uganda continues to grapple with a worsening road safety crisis.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2024, the country recorded 25,107 road crashes, up from 23,608 in 2023.
The accidents resulted in 5,144 deaths and more than 20,000 injuries, representing a significant increase in road-related fatalities.
Police statistics identify speeding, careless overtaking, reckless driving, and failure to observe traffic regulations among the leading causes of road accidents.
Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and motorcyclists, continue to account for a large proportion of fatalities on Uganda’s roads.
The loss of Master Parrot has triggered an outpouring of grief among fans and fellow musicians.
