BY MARIAM NAMAKULA & RACHAEL PAKRWOTH
The government through the ministry of health has accredited two laboratories to address the need for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) testing services in the country.
According to the ministry, Government Analytical Laboratory and MBN Clinical Laboratories have met the required standards and will be responsible for carrying out all paternity DNA testing indicating that this will limit the number of authorized laboratories and ensure proper oversight and control over the DNA testing process.
“Any laboratory that is prepared and wants to carry out DNA paternity testing can apply to the Director General of Health Services,” Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, the Minister of Health, announced during a media briefing at the Health Ministry headquarters in Kampala that the government has banned private facilities from conducting DNA testing.
The government’s decision comes at a time when many families across the country are seeking DNA analysis to determine biological parentage. The accreditation of the two laboratories is expected to provide a reliable and regulated avenue for individuals and families to access DNA testing services.
Earlier on last week, the parliament through the Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa asked government to find solution to the mushrooming DNA testing facilities that are not only orchestrating fake results but were also acting as a catalyst fuming the increasing numbers of family break ups.
Aceng noted that DNA testing remains a complex procedure that required sophisticated technology, highly skilled personnel and infrastructure as any contamination could easily lead yo insurance of false results.
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Minister Aceng also said that they intends to track down any unauthorized DNA testing facilities operating in the country and take appropriate action against them. This move emphasizes the government’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity and accuracy of DNA testing in Uganda.
The decision to prohibit private facilities from conducting DNA testing is aimed at regulating the process and ensuring accurate and reliable results. Minister Aceng expressed concerns about the quality and credibility of DNA testing conducted by private entities, which prompted the government’s intervention.
The regulation of DNA testing is a significant step towards ensuring transparency and reliability in determining biological relationships. The Ministry of Health’s actions aim to protect individuals and families from potential misinformation and fraudulent practices associated with unregulated DNA testing.
