The Ugandan Health Ministry has responded to the growing demand for DNA paternity testing by issuing a set of guidelines for health facilities conducting such tests. These tests determine whether a man is the biological father of a child by analyzing genetic material, often obtained through a cheek swab. The ministry’s permanent secretary, Dr. Diana Atwine, announced the guidelines during the National Laboratory Sector Performance Review meeting held at Hotel Africana on September 28, 2023.
Dr. Atwine explained the motivation behind these guidelines, stating, “Some months ago, there was a lot of interest in DNA testing, with many people wanting to undergo these tests. Our teams conducted assessments of various laboratories and identified several areas that needed improvement. As a result, we have developed these guidelines to provide clear instructions for those interested in offering this type of testing.”
One key aspect of the new guidelines requires laboratories that receive samples from sample collection facilities to promptly report any instances of fraud or suspected fraud during the transfer of genetic material to the director general of health services. Additionally, facilities seeking licensure for DNA sample collection must be legally registered entities in Uganda, except for government-accredited public laboratories. Proof of ownership of premises, such as land titles or lease agreements, is also required.
The guidelines further stipulate that any facility applying for authorization to perform DNA sample collection must have an authorized director with the necessary powers of attorney to represent the company, assuming full responsibility for all claims and liabilities. Adequate physical space for sample collection is also a requirement, and facilities must adhere to the standard operating procedures provided by the Ministry of Health for sample collection, packaging, storage, and shipment, including maintaining the chain of custody.
In cases where a facility collects samples but does not conduct the actual testing, they must establish a valid material transfer agreement with an accredited DNA testing laboratory, whether within Uganda or abroad. Such agreements will be subject to approval by the director general of health services.
Additionally, facilities applying for a licence to conduct DNA sample collection should have a counsellor, clinical psychologist, or nurse with counseling training as part of their full-time staff. Furthermore, their technical staff responsible for sample collection must be registered with the respective professional councils and possess valid annual practicing licenses.
Dr. Susan Nabadda, the Commissioner of National Health Laboratory and Diagnostic Services, mentioned during the meeting that over 70 laboratories in Uganda are already accredited. She also noted that most regional referral hospitals in the country are equipped to perform various types of medical testing, including chemistry, hematology, microbiology, cancer testing, sugar testing, and cancer screening.
