The debate surrounding DNA testing continues to gather momentum, and newly appointed Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has now urged young men to consider carrying out paternity tests immediately after the birth of a child.
Speaking to journalists, Balaam argued that early DNA testing could spare families years of emotional distress and legal battles by resolving questions of paternity from the outset.
His remarks come in the wake of the widely discussed DNA exercise involving people claiming to be children of the late Paul Kafeero.
Of the 25 individuals who underwent testing, only four were confirmed to be the Kadongo Kamu legend’s biological children.
Drawing from his experience as the former Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs, Balaam said paternity disputes were more common than many people realize.
Out of the 250 DNA tests we conducted, 238 were negative, while only 12 were positive.
According to the minister, many men had spent years raising children they believed were their own, only to discover through DNA testing that they were not the biological fathers.
I appeal to young people to carry out DNA tests at birth.
Balaam also encouraged young men to avoid having multiple sexual partners, saying responsible relationships can help reduce paternity disputes and the painful family conflicts that often follow.