Medical

MBABANE – The call for mandatory DNA testing before the registration of children’s birth certificates has sparked an outpouring of support.

Ordinary citizens, activists and legislators say the policy could finally put an end to one of society’s most painful and divisive issues: Disputed paternity.

The proposal, expected to be tabled in Parliament by Mahlangatsha Member of Parliament Mgucisi Dlamini and seconded by Mhlambanyatsi MP Bonginkhosi Dlamini, goes beyond legislative formality. For many emaSwati, it touches on the deepest layers of family life, identity and trust.

Under the motion, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Health would be required to work hand-in-hand to develop and implement a clear policy on DNA testing.

The proposal further instructs Home Affairs Minister Princess Lindiwe to amend the National Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Act of 2023 within 60 days of the motion’s adoption, so that DNA verification can be included as part of the birth registration process, particularly in cases where paternity is disputed or unclear.

However, beyond the walls of Parliament, the subject has struck a raw nerve, drawing overwhelming public interest and passionate debate both on the streets and on social media.

For many, the issue is about lived experiences, broken families, shattered trust and men and women struggling to come to terms with betrayal.

Back in July, a case reported in northern Hhohho sent shockwaves through the nation. A man discovered that the four children he had raised with his wife for 13 years were not biologically his. DNA testing ordered by the Pigg’s Peak Magistrates Court confirmed the devastating truth.

The man had been providing about E4 000 every month to maintain the children, only to discover that none of them carried his bloodline. His wife, initially reluctant, admitted she had known that one of the children was not his but claimed ignrance about the others.

The case left not only the couple but their extended families reeling. Relatives demanded reimbursement from the unknown biological fathers, while the wife, unemployed and fearful for her life, expressed regret, but admitted she could not repay the money.

Supporters of the motion argue that the current birth registration system, which does not require verification of paternity, leaves room for fraud, secrecy and emotional trauma.

The MPs have proposed that the State consider subsidising or offering affordable DNA services, particularly for low-income families.

Currently, a DNA test for a child under the age of 18 costs around E4 850 at Lancet Laboratories, an amount far higher than what most emaSwati take home in earnings.

According to Mauv Group, in its Minimum Wager by Country Report, Eswatini instead, regulates wages through numerous industry-specific wage orders. The minimum wages vary significantly by sector and skill level. However, the demographic that commonly has paternity disputes can be identified as low-income earners in some cases.

The Times of Eswatini’s Facebook page became a source of debate when news of the motion first surfaced. The overwhelming majority of commenters welcomed the idea, describing it as ‘long overdue’ and ‘the only way to bring fairness in families’.

One user wrote: “Too many men have been made fools, raising children that are not theirs. This must stop.”

Another added: “This will bring peace in homes. We need to know the truth from the start.”

But there were also dissenting voices. Some argued that DNA testing should not be mandatory, viewing it as an intrusion into family privacy. Others said the emotional cost of revealing the truth might do more harm than good, breaking families apart and traumatising children who might not understand the complexities.

Still, the prevailing view was that truth is better than uncertainty.

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‘Test can prevent cases of violence’

MBABANE - On the streets, emaSwati are voicing strong support. This reporter spoke to individuals who expressed why they believe the motion is necessary.

Lindiwe Mnisi said DNA testing would finally compel men to meet their responsibilities. “There are men who run away from their duties, hiding behind doubts about paternity. With DNA proof, they will have no excuse not to provide for their children.”

Sandile Ndwandwe highlighted how paternity disputes sometimes spill into abuse. “Some men end up abusing children or women because of lingering doubts. With DNA testing, the truth is established early and such cases of violence can be prevented.”

Sethu Ginindza focused on the emotional toll. “It is heartbreaking to raise a child for years, only to learn later that the child is not yours. That kind of pain destroys men. This policy would protect them and bring peace.”

Juliet Mthupha said DNA testing would reduce unnecessary court battles. “We see so many cases in the courts where men dispute paternity. These cases drag for years. DNA testing at birth will clear doubts immediately.”

*Full article available in our publication.

The call for mandatory DNA testing before the registration of children’s birth certificates has sparked an outpouring of support. (Pic: HowStuffWorks)