DNA Testing in Kenya: When to Do It, Types, Process and Cost

DNA testing has become more common in Kenya, especially in cases where individuals want to establish biological relationships, including paternity, maternity and sibling relationships.

A DNA test compares genetic material from two or more people to establish whether they have a biological relationship.

One of the most common tests is a paternity test, which determines whether a particular man is the biological father of the child in question.

This test can be done privately for personal reasons or for legal purposes. According to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the type of test required depends on how the results will be used.

When To Do A DNA Test

One may choose to do a paternity test when there is uncertainty or a person is not sure about the biological father of the child

Maternity, sibling, and other relationship tests can be conducted where different biological relationships need to be established.

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In legal disputes, especially child custody and child support battles, a DNA test is usually required and the results may be presented in court for a ruling.

However, there is a distinction between a private DNA test and a legal DNA test.

Legal DNA test

For a legal DNA test, the process must follow a strict chain of custody, which involves procedures that are normally designed to verify the identities of the people tested and ensure it is properly documented.

KEMRI notes that this process is necessary for results intended to be used as evidence in court.

On the other hand, a private or home DNA test is intended for personal knowledge and the samples can be self-collected; however, the results cannot be used in a legal battle because the identities are private.

DNA testing commonly uses a saliva or cheek-swab sample. KEMRI says it can also conduct DNA analysis using other biological material, including blood, nails, bones, teeth and hair, depending on the circumstances.

DNA Test Cost

For a standard paternity test, the child and alleged father are typically tested, while including the mother can provide additional information depending on the case and laboratory requirements.

The cost varies depending on the laboratory, type of test and whether the test is intended for personal or legal purposes.

DNA testing commonly uses a saliva or cheek-swab sample.

KEMRI says it can also conduct DNA analysis using other biological material, including blood, nails, bones, teeth and hair, depending on the circumstances.

DNA Laboratory

For a standard paternity test, the child and alleged father are typically tested, while including the mother can provide additional information depending on the case and laboratory requirements.

The cost varies depending on the laboratory, type of test and whether the test is intended for personal or legal purposes.

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People seeking DNA testing should confirm the laboratory is properly accredited and that the test meets their intended purpose.

If you intend to use DNA results in court, request a legal DNA test rather than assuming a privately collected or home test will be accepted as evidence.

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A photo of an illustration of a DNA sequence
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