Spike in DNA Test Requests

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has raised concern over a dramatic rise in the number of Ugandans seeking DNA testing, revealing that most of the results have left families in shock and emotional distress.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Ministry Spokesperson Simon Mundeyi disclosed that in just three days, the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Services recorded 94 DNA applications, with a staggering 95% of the applicants being men seeking to confirm paternity of their children.

“We have also recorded 2% of women requesting DNA tests on their children, and even more striking 3% of these applications are from adult children who are bringing in their parents for DNA testing. They want to know whether they were truly fathered by the man they know as their father.” Mundeyi revealed.

Mundeyi described the surge as both unprecedented and emotionally damaging. He warned Ugandans, particularly men, to proceed with caution before pursuing DNA services.

Spike in DNA Test Requests

“My advice is simple: Do not engage in DNA testing unless you have a very strong heart. These results are not for the faint-hearted,” he warned. “From the records we’ve reviewed, 98% of DNA results have come out negative, confirming fears of misattributed paternity in many households.” he says

According to the ministry, the fallout from these tests is contributing to increased family instability, especially when results are received after children have grown.

“Imagine raising a child for 15 years, and then you’re told the child is not biologically yours. What do you do?” Mundeyi asked.

He added “Our advice is that if men wish to do paternity tests, it should be done at birth or while the child is still very young not later when the damage is harder to manage emotionally.”

The ministry is calling on the public to seek professional counseling before undergoing DNA testing, given the psychological toll it can have on familiesespecially children.

“Let us protect the emotional well-being of the next generation,” Mundeyi noted