Kampala, Uganda: The Ministry of Internal Affairs has cautioned Ugandans against rushing into DNA paternity testing without emotional preparedness, warning that the process can have devastating psychological consequences for individuals who are not ready for the outcomes.
Speaking to journalists on Monday in Kampala, the Ministry spokesperson, Mr Simon Peter Mundeyi, revealed that government laboratories in Wandegeya have registered at least 94 DNA cases in recent months, with numbers climbing daily.
Mr Mundeyi noted that men account for 95% of the cases, with women making up 2% and children 3%, underscoring the gender imbalance in those seeking verification of biological ties.
“If you don’t have a strong heart, please don’t do a DNA test because you shall develop heart diseases,” Mundeyi warned, citing the emotional strain and health risks linked to unexpected or painful revelations concerning paternity or family identity.
While the Ministry did not place restrictions on DNA testing, Mundeyi advised the public to approach the process cautiously and only when fully prepared for potentially life-altering results.
He attributed the current surge in demand to increased public awareness, easier access to testing, and growing concerns over paternity questions.
Authorities are now recommending that psychosocial support services be prioritized in both government and private laboratories to help individuals and families manage the shock or trauma often associated with DNA results.
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