news 3 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Paul Kafeero Grave Reconstruction Stalled, Locals Express Concern
Residents in Buikwe District are alarmed as the reconstruction of the late musician Paul Kafeero's grave has stalled, with contractors abandoning the site before completion. The project, initiated after a court-ordered exhumation for DNA testing, has left materials and tools exposed. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/residents-alarmed-as-late-musician-paul-kafeero-s-grave-reconstruction-stalls-5483444
The final resting place of renowned Ugandan musician Paulo Kafeero in Masaba Village, Buikwe District, has become a point of concern for local residents. The planned reconstruction of his grave has reportedly ground to a halt, with contractors seemingly abandoning the project.
The stalled work follows a court-sanctioned exhumation of Kafeero’s remains, which was conducted to facilitate DNA testing for paternity claims. A recent visit to the site revealed no ongoing construction, despite mixed cement and sand left exposed to the elements. Tools such as hoes and spades were found locked away, and essential materials like gravel stones were reportedly absent.
Frederick Kalaala, a neighbour, noted that workers had been present briefly, mixing materials before departing without undertaking any construction. He speculated that the contractors might be awaiting further supplies from Rhino Funeral Services, the company tasked with the grave’s restoration. Even police security previously assigned to the site has reportedly been withdrawn.
Disappointment is palpable among the community members, who feel the current state of the grave is disrespectful to the late artist’s significant contributions to Uganda’s cultural landscape. Some have also pointed fingers at Kafeero’s family for insufficient oversight of the reconstruction process.
Residents have put forth a plea for local artisans to complete the project, expressing confidence in the community’s building skills if provided with the necessary resources. They are also calling for intervention from Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara to ensure the grave’s completion.
Rhino Funeral Services, the contracted company, has not yet provided a comment on the situation. Kafeero’s brother, Nende Abubaker, had previously stated that Minister Barugahara had provided all the necessary funds for the reconstruction. Paulo Kafeero passed away in May 2007.