Musician Paul Kafeero's remains exhumed for DNA testing on 20 children

The long-standing paternity dispute involving 20 children alleged to have been fathered by the late legendary Ugandan Kadongo Kamu musician Paul Kafeero is set for resolution following the exhumation of his remains for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing.

The late legendary Ugandan Kadongo Kamu musician Paul Kafeero

The development was announced on Monday, June 1, 2026, by the former State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara, who said the exercise marks a significant step towards establishing the truth in a matter that has remained unresolved for more than two decades.

The former State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara, said the exercise marks a significant step towards establishing the truth in a matter that has remained unresolved for more than two decades. (Credit: Eddie Ssejjoba)

According to the minister, Kafeero's remains were exhumed on Monday morning, and samples were collected for forensic analysis in accordance with a court order and established scientific procedures.

The exercise was conducted by a team of pathologists led by Assistant Inspector General of Police Dr Moses Byaruhanga, with officials from the Uganda Police Force overseeing the process.

Exhumed remains of the late legendary Ugandan Kadongo Kamu musician Paul Kafeero. (Credit: David Musisi Kalyankolo)

The samples will be analysed by the Government Analytical Laboratory and the Uganda Police Forensic Laboratory to establish conclusive facts through DNA testing.

The minister noted that the paternity dispute has, for years, been a source of disagreement among family members and expressed hope that the scientific findings will bring clarity, justice and harmony to those involved.

He expressed gratitude to the court, family members, Dr Byaruhanga and his team, and the Uganda Police Force for their role in facilitating the exercise.

Barugahara also said he had supported the process in the interest of justice, truth and family unity.

Kafeero, one of Uganda's celebrated musicians, died in 2007. The DNA analysis is expected to provide answers regarding the paternity claims that have remained a subject of contention for years.

“May the soul of Kafeero continue to rest in eternal peace,” the minister said.
Citing Luke 12:2, the minister noted that, “There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.”