By Nathan Eyagu 

Kampala — The remains of celebrated Kadongokamu icon, Prince Paul Job Kafeero, have been exhumed as authorities begin DNA testing to verify longstanding claims involving more than 20 individuals who allege to be his biological children.

The court-supervised exhumation, carried out earlier this week, forms part of a legal and forensic process aimed at resolving a paternity dispute that has persisted for over two decades. Following the exercise, the musician’s remains were placed in a new casket in preparation for reburial pending the outcome of the DNA analysis.

According to former State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, the exercise marks a critical milestone in a long-standing family matter that has drawn significant public attention.

Barugahara noted that the exhumation and sample collection were conducted by a team of forensic experts led by Assistant Inspector General of Police Dr. Byaruhanga, in accordance with a court order and established scientific procedures.

He further stated that the Government Analytical Laboratory, in collaboration with the Uganda Police Forensic Laboratory, will now undertake DNA testing to establish biological relationships between the late musician and the claimants.

“The family has endured a prolonged dispute for years, and this process is intended to bring clarity and closure based on scientific evidence,” he said.

Authorities have emphasized that the process was conducted under strict legal and professional oversight to ensure integrity and transparency in the handling of human remains and genetic material.

The results of the DNA analysis are expected to determine whether the claimants are biological descendants of the late musician, whose influence on Uganda’s traditional Kadongokamu music remains widely recognized.

Prince Paul Kafeero, who remains one of Uganda’s most influential folk musicians, is remembered for his contribution to shaping the genre and inspiring a generation of artists.

The case has sparked renewed public interest in issues surrounding inheritance, lineage, and the role of forensic science in resolving long-standing family disputes.

Officials say the findings, once released, are expected to bring long-awaited closure to a matter that has spanned more than 20 years.