DNA Test Results Shock Claimants of Late Singer's Estate
A DNA test conducted on individuals claiming to be children of the late Ugandan Afro-folk singer Paul Job Kafeero has revealed that only four out of 25 are biologically his. The test was carried out by the Police Forensic Directorate at Police Headquarters in Naguru, under the supervision of Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara, Director of Forensics Andrew Mubiru, and Director of the Government Analytical Laboratory Kepher Kuchana Kateu. The results were released on 25 June 2026 in the presence of security and government officials, as well as the claimants and their mothers.
Kafeero, known as the “Golden Boy of Africa,” passed away in 2007 after battling kidney failure. Nearly two decades later, about 25 children and their mothers came forward to claim his properties, which include extensive landholdings in Kajjansi, Kyaggwe, and Buikwe in Uganda. The court ordered the DNA test following a long-standing dispute that has lasted almost 20 years, with claimants alleging that administrators of the estate were unlawfully disposing of family properties.
Only Four Children Confirmed as Biological Heirs
According to the test results, only four individuals were confirmed as the biological children of the late singer: Benedicto Kafeero, Simon Peter Kafeero, Thomas Swaz Kafeero, and Elizabeth Nagawa. The other 21 individuals were turned away after the results. The test was initially intended to use preserved blood samples, but authorities later exhumed Kafeero’s remains in Nkokonjeru for bone-sample DNA analysis.
The paternity dispute has been a source of intense family legal battles, with about 24 children originally coming forward to claim inheritance. The estate includes valuable properties that have been the subject of litigation for years. The DNA test results are expected to bring closure to the matter, allowing the confirmed heirs to proceed with inheritance claims.
Paul Job Kafeero's Musical Legacy
Kafeero was a pioneering figure in Uganda's music scene, popularising Kadongo Kamu, a traditional folk music genre. His songs featured emotional lyrics that explored love, social issues, and cultural identity, resonating with diverse audiences across the country. He also addressed social and political issues, providing a platform for expressing the experiences and aspirations of Ugandans. Known for his high energy and passionate delivery, Kafeero captivated audiences during live performances. His music continues to be celebrated, and his death left a void in the Ugandan music industry.
