The government has announced that only two laboratories in the country are authorized to conduct paternity DNA testing. This decision comes at a time when families nationwide are turning to DNA analysis to determine biological parentage.
The accredited laboratories are MBN Lab located along Nakasero Road and the government diagnostics laboratory in Butabika.
According to Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, the Minister for Health, this move aims to regulate the process of paternity DNA testing, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and standardization in the obtained results.
To maintain high levels of accuracy, all other laboratories are now restricted from conducting such tests or sending DNA samples abroad. The government is keen on ensuring that the testing process remains controlled and the results are trustworthy.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is actively working on establishing a price index for paternity DNA testing. This index will standardize the cost of the service across the country, making it more accessible to individuals seeking to utilize this essential tool for determining biological relationships.