DNA Shocker: Only four of 25 claimants confirmed as Paul Kafeero’s biological Children

By Our Reporter

A long-running dispute over the descendants of late Kadongo Kamu icon Paul Kafeero has taken a dramatic turn after DNA tests established that only four of the 25 individuals who claimed to be his children are biologically related to him.

The findings follow a government-led forensic exercise that included the exhumation of Kafeero’s remains earlier this month to obtain DNA samples and settle years of competing paternity claims.

The exhumation was conducted under a court order by a team of forensic experts headed by Moses Byaruhanga, following established scientific and legal procedures.

According to results released on Thursday, only four individuals who submitted DNA samples were confirmed as the late musician’s biological children, drastically reducing the number of people eligible to claim direct lineage.

The exercise has been supervised by Balaam Barugahara, together with forensic officials including Andrew Mubiru and Kepher Kuchana Kateu.

Those positively identified as Kafeero’s biological children are Benedicto Kafeero, Simon Peter Kafeero, Thomas Kafeero, and Elizabeth Nagawa.

The DNA findings are expected to significantly influence the ongoing battle over the musician’s estate and inheritance rights, bringing much-needed clarity to a matter that has remained unresolved for years.

Sources familiar with the process said the testing was intended to eliminate uncertainty surrounding Kafeero’s family lineage and provide a definitive scientific basis for decisions concerning his estate.

Legal analysts believe the results will be instrumental in determining rightful beneficiaries, particularly where documentary evidence has been lacking or disputed. Estate administrators are now expected to move forward with greater confidence regarding the distribution of assets.

However, the outcome is likely to generate mixed reactions among individuals whose claims have been ruled out. Some are reportedly questioning aspects of the process, although no formal legal objections had been lodged by the time of publication.

Widely celebrated as one of Uganda’s most influential Kadongo Kamu musicians, Kafeero left behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire audiences across generations. His songs, known for their social commentary and cultural insight, secured his place among the country’s most respected artists.

While his music remains well documented, details of his private life have often remained unclear, contributing to the prolonged family dispute. The DNA verification is now expected to settle questions surrounding his lineage and reshape the narrative of his family history.

Authorities and representatives of the family are expected to issue further guidance on the management and distribution of the estate among the verified heirs.

The results mark a major milestone in a saga that has persisted for nearly two decades, offering closure to some while ushering in a new phase in preserving the late singer’s legacy.