Uganda’s Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has sparked widespread public debate after claiming that a large majority of paternity-related DNA tests conducted through petitions during his tenure at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development excluded the men who were believed to be the biological fathers of the children involved.
Speaking during a discussion on the growing public interest in DNA testing, Balaam said the ministry handled hundreds of paternity-related cases in which men sought scientific confirmation regarding the biological relationship between themselves and children they had been raising or supporting.
According to Balaam, a total of 250 DNA tests were reportedly conducted following petitions submitted to the ministry. He claimed that only a small fraction of those tests confirmed the alleged fathers as the biological parents of the children in question.
The minister stated that 238 of the 250 tests allegedly showed that the men involved were not the biological fathers. If accurate, the figures would represent approximately 95.2 percent of the cases handled through that particular process, a statistic that immediately generated significant public reaction.
His remarks have since gone viral on social media, with many Ugandans expressing surprise, disbelief, concern, and curiosity about the figures he cited. Others have questioned whether the reported numbers accurately represent the broader population or only a specific group of disputed paternity cases.
Because the tests were reportedly conducted in situations where paternity was already being challenged, some observers noted that such cases may not necessarily reflect general family relationships across the country. Instead, they argue that the sample consisted largely of disputes where doubts already existed.
Balaam maintained that the findings demonstrate the importance of DNA testing in resolving long-standing family disputes. According to him, many of the men involved had spent years supporting children while believing they were the biological fathers.
He argued that scientific testing can provide certainty in situations where allegations, rumors, or suspicions have created conflict within families. In his view, access to reliable DNA testing can help prevent prolonged emotional and financial disputes.
The minister also used the opportunity to encourage men who have genuine doubts about paternity to seek scientific verification rather than relying on speculation. He suggested that clarity obtained through testing can help individuals make informed decisions regarding family responsibilities.
His comments come at a time when DNA testing is becoming increasingly discussed in Uganda and other countries as technology becomes more accessible. Advances in genetic science have made it possible to determine biological relationships with a high degree of accuracy.
The discussion gained additional attention following recent DNA test results involving the family of the late Kadongo Kamu musician Paul Kafeero. Those results reportedly found that only a limited number of individuals tested were confirmed as his biological children.
The findings in the Kafeero case attracted national attention because the paternity dispute had persisted for years. Public interest intensified after some family members reportedly disputed the conclusions reached through the DNA analysis.
One of the most talked-about aspects of the case involved an individual who many believed strongly resembled the late singer. Despite the perceived physical resemblance, reports indicated that the DNA results did not establish a biological relationship.
The controversy surrounding the Kafeero family case reignited broader discussions about whether physical appearance alone is sufficient evidence of biological parentage. Experts generally emphasize that DNA testing remains the most reliable method of determining paternity.
Meanwhile, Balaam revealed that responsibility for handling similar matters had since moved on following changes in government assignments. He referenced retired military officer and politician Henry Tumukunde while discussing leadership transitions connected to the ministry’s work.
The minister’s statements have generated mixed reactions among members of the public. Some praised him for speaking openly about a subject many consider sensitive, while others questioned the methodology, scope, and interpretation of the figures he presented.
Family counselors and social commentators have noted that paternity disputes often involve deep emotional consequences for children, parents, and extended family members. As a result, they argue that such matters should be approached carefully and responsibly.
Legal experts also point out that DNA results can have implications for inheritance claims, child support obligations, custody arrangements, and other family-related legal issues. Consequently, accurate testing procedures and proper handling of results are considered essential.
The debate has additionally highlighted the growing role of science in resolving questions that were once determined primarily through testimony, assumptions, or family traditions. Many observers believe technological advances will continue shaping how such disputes are addressed in the future.
As public discussion continues, attention is likely to remain focused on the statistics cited by Balaam and the broader questions they have raised. Whether the figures accurately reflect the full picture or simply a specific category of disputed cases, the remarks have undoubtedly reignited a national conversation about paternity, family responsibility, and the increasing use of DNA testing in Uganda.Note: The figures cited in this article are claims attributed to Balaam Barugahara and have not been independently verified here.
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