For many Ugandans, DNA testing has become synonymous with paternity disputes. But scientists say its role extends far beyond determining biological parentage. From criminal investigations and inheritance disputes to disaster victim identification, DNA is increasingly transforming how society seeks the truth. As calls grow for mandatory DNA testing at birth, the debate is no longer just about science; it is also about family, trust, and the rights of children. Robert Gumisiriza reports.

In Uganda, DNA testing has become increasingly common as more individuals turn to science to answer questions that were once resolved through trust, family testimony, or traditional beliefs.

The country currently has two accredited laboratories authorized to conduct DNA testing: the Directorate of Government Analytical Laboratory (DGAL) and MBN Clinical Laboratories. While some hospitals and clinics collect DNA samples, the actual analysis is carried out at these accredited facilities.

Although paternity disputes account for the majority of requests, DNA testing is also used in criminal investigations, inheritance disputes, immigration cases, and court-ordered examinations.

Public interest in DNA testing has grown significantly following the widely publicized case involving the estate of the late Kadongo Kamu legend, Paul Kafeero. Of the 25 individuals who submitted DNA samples claiming to be his biological children, only four were confirmed through scientific analysis.

The findings sparked nationwide debate and highlighted the growing role of DNA in establishing biological identity and resolving long-standing family disputes.

The conversation, however, began long before the Kafeero case.

Former State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, revealed that during his tenure at the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, about 250 DNA tests were conducted, with 238 returning negative paternity results.

Experts caution that these figures should not be interpreted as representing all Ugandan families. Rather, they reflect only individuals who voluntarily sought DNA testing after already having doubts.

Even so, the statistics point to a growing reliance on scientific evidence to answer deeply personal questions.

Behind every DNA test is a family.

For many people, the decision to undergo DNA testing comes after months or even years of uncertainty. Some seek answers during disputes over child support, inheritance, divorce, or family relationships, while others simply want peace of mind.

The results can bring relief and closure, but they can also lead to broken relationships, emotional distress, lengthy legal battles, and, in some cases, complete family separation.

Often, children become the silent victims of disputes they neither created nor understand.

It is these life-changing consequences that continue to fuel the national debate over the role DNA testing should play in Uganda.

As DNA testing becomes more accessible, some Ugandans believe the country should adopt a new approach.

Rather than waiting until disputes arise years later, they propose that every child should undergo DNA testing at birth as part of Uganda's standard birth registration process.

Among those supporting the proposal is student leader and children's rights activist Brian Ainamani. He argues that DNA testing at birth should not be viewed as a sign of mistrust between parents but as a routine procedure that establishes a child's biological identity from the very beginning.

Supporters argue that routine DNA testing at birth would provide certainty from the beginning of a child's life, prevent future paternity disputes, simplify inheritance claims, strengthen birth registration systems, protect the rights of both fathers and children, and reduce the emotional and financial costs of resolving such disputes years later.

To them, the proposal is not about suspicion but about certainty.

However, not everyone agrees.

Critics argue that while DNA testing provides scientific certainty, making it mandatory raises important legal, ethical, and social concerns. They believe DNA testing should remain a personal choice rather than a compulsory requirement for every family.

They warn that mandatory testing could undermine trust within families by creating the impression that every mother must prove the identity of her child's father.

Others question how sensitive genetic information would be stored, who would access it, and whether Uganda has adequate legal safeguards to protect personal privacy.

There are also concerns about affordability. Implementing routine DNA testing for every newborn would require substantial financial resources, raising questions about whether such a program would be practical in Uganda.

Child rights advocates further caution that while adults may seek certainty, children often bear the greatest consequences when DNA results expose family disputes. Some may face rejection, discrimination, or emotional distress because of circumstances beyond their control.

They also argue that while DNA can establish biological relationships, it cannot define a family. Love, care, responsibility, and commitment remain the values that bind families together.

The debate therefore extends far beyond science.

It raises fundamental questions about trust, privacy, children's rights, and the role of government in family life.

As opinions remain divided, one thing is clear: DNA testing is increasingly becoming an important tool for establishing truth in Uganda. Whether it should become a routine test for every newborn, however, remains a question that continues to divide policymakers, legal experts, and the public.