Celebrated fashion mogul and socialite Bryan Ahumuza, the founder and face behind the upscale Abryanz Collection, has been ordered by the Commercial Division of the High Court to pay USD 33,200 in outstanding rent arrears.
In a ruling delivered on June 5, 2025, by Hon. Lady Justice Patience T.E. Rubagumya, the Court found that Ahumuza’s company, Abryanz Collection Ltd, was liable for unpaid rent owed to city property owner Yasheen Ratanshi, relating to a high-end boutique space along Bukoto Street in the upscale Kololo neighborhood.
The Dispute
The case arose from a tenancy agreement executed between the two parties on August 1, 2023, under which Abryanz Collection rented premises described as FRV 1297 Folio 12 Plot 13 at Bukoto Street (Kololo Hill), Kyadondo. The property was meant to house a fashion boutique, with Ahumuza’s company granted a three-month grace period before rent payments commenced.
However, the relationship soured following a site inspection by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) officials, which resulted in the premises being condemned and declared unfit for occupation, eventually prompting a directive for demolition and redevelopment. Ahumuza’s company claimed it could not utilize the space and therefore stopped remitting rent.
According to court filings, Abryanz Collection had already paid USD 20,000 in rent, but ceased payments despite still occupying the premises.
Court Rejects Defence
In the application before the Court (Misc. Application No. 831 of 2025 arising from Civil Suit No. 385 of 2025), Ahumuza sought unconditional leave to appear and defend the suit filed by Ratanshi. He argued that his rent obligation was frustrated by KCCA’s condemnation of the building and maintained that rent was paid in good faith in anticipation of occupying the boutique.
But the Court dismissed this argument, noting that the tenancy agreement explicitly stated that all improvements and remodeling works would be undertaken at the tenant’s risk and cost, with no refunds from the landlord. Moreover, the lease agreement made it clear that rent obligations were not conditional upon KCCA approvals.
The judge noted that Ahumuza’s company remained in possession of the premises and even continued to make partial rent payments after learning of the condemnation, indicating acknowledgment of the rental obligation.
Key Evidence
In rejecting the defence, Justice Rubagumya relied heavily on:
FinCom Technologies Empowers Parents with SchoolPay School Fees Savings Campaign- Receipts showing continued rent payments by Abryanz Collection even after the premises were deemed unfit;
- A letter dated October 4, 2024, in which Ahumuza offered to purchase the property and acknowledged ongoing rent obligations up to January 2025;
- And the original tenancy agreement, which provided that the tenant bore full responsibility for renovations and rent payments regardless of building conditions.
“The Applicant has not raised any triable issue of fact or law to warrant the granting of leave to appear and defend,” ruled Justice Rubagumya.
Orders of the Court
As a result, the Court entered judgment in favour of Yasheen Ratanshi, awarding the following:
- USD 33,200 as rent arrears up to March 31, 2025;
- Additional rent payments for the period after March 2025 until vacant possession is handed over;
- Interest at 18% per annum on all outstanding sums from the date of default;
- An order compelling Abryanz Collection to vacate the premises;
- Costs of the suit to be paid by the Applicant.
A Fashion Icon in Legal Spotlight
Bryan Ahumuza, popularly known as Abryanz, is a household name in Uganda’s fashion and entertainment circles. He is the founder of the Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards (ASFAs) and has dressed countless celebrities across Africa.
This court ruling places the high-profile designer under legal and financial scrutiny, casting a shadow over one of Uganda’s most glamorous fashion brands.
Legal analysts say the case serves as a wake-up call for commercial tenants and entrepreneurs who sign complex leases in prime locations. It underscores the importance of understanding the full extent of contractual obligations—especially when renovation and regulatory approvals are involved.
What Lies Ahead?
As of the date of the ruling, it is unclear whether Ahumuza intends to appeal the decision or negotiate a payment plan with the landlord. What is certain, however, is that failure to comply with the Court’s orders could expose the fashion brand to further legal action, including eviction, property seizure, or enforcement proceedings.
In a commercial landscape where image and credibility are crucial, the outcome of this case may have ripple effects beyond the courtroom for Uganda’s most recognized fashion entrepreneur.
