The Prince Job Paul Kafeero Cultural Heritage has issued a stern warning and instructed its lawyers to begin legal proceedings over what it calls the unauthorised alteration and politicisation of the late Paul Kafeero’s music.
In a statement dated March 3, 2026, the foundation said it had compiled a list of individuals accused of reproducing and modifying Kafeero’s works without consent, particularly across digital platforms such as TikTok and YouTube.
At the centre of the latest storm is Lil Pazo, whose remake of Agunde Gunde has triggered renewed outrage from the custodians of Kafeero’s legacy.
The warning follows renewed controversy after Lil Pazo redid Agunde Gunde, one of Paul Kafeero’s songs. Lil Pazo recorded the song shortly before the highly publicised meeting with President Yoweri Museveni in Kisozi.
While the remake retained the original melody, sections of the lyrics were altered, a move the heritage foundation argues distorts both the artistic integrity and historical context of the song.
For the estate, this is not just about a cover version. It is about protecting the authenticity of a cultural archive that defined an era of kadongo kamu music. The foundation insists that retaining a melody while changing lyrics constitutes a derivative work that requires written authorisation from the rightful copyright holders.
The statement further named other artists, including Kid Dee, accusing them of re voicing Kafeero’s songs using original melodies but inserting new lyrics described as abusive, immoral and political in nature.
“These have to be brought to book,” the statement reads in part, adding that lawyers from Bistow Advocates have been directed to take immediate legal action.
The heritage body emphasised that no individual is permitted to reproduce, adapt, remix or commercially exploit Kafeero’s works without formal clearance. It warned that continued infringement would attract legal consequences under Uganda’s copyright and neighbouring rights laws.
Signed by Executive Director Deric Fredric Namakajo, the statement framed the issue as one of cultural preservation rather than personal grievance, urging the public to respect the originality and integrity of Kafeero’s music.
As remix culture continues to thrive online and political seasons heighten sensitivities around messaging, the looming court action could set a significant precedent for how Uganda treats intellectual property tied to its musical legends.
Story By Sqoop Ug
