DNA Tests Reveal 39% Paternity Exclusion Rate in Zambia

Nearly 40 percent of men who underwent DNA paternity testing in Zambia last year were found not to be biological fathers of the children in question.

The Ministry of Home Affairs disclosed that 48 out of 123 paternity cases processed by the National Forensic Science and Biometrics Department's DNA Laboratory in 2025 excluded the alleged fathers, while 75 cases confirmed biological fatherhood.

Principal Public Relations Officer Mwala Kalaluka said the results demonstrate the critical role of DNA evidence in resolving family, humanitarian and civil disputes.

The laboratory, based at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, handled 450 cases total in 2025. The remaining 327 cases were criminal matters, with 267 involving sexual offences and 36 related to non-sexual crimes.

Mr. Kalaluka emphasised that while paternity testing represents an important service, the department's primary mandate focuses on combating sexual and gender-based violence through DNA analysis.

He said the department primarily focuses on addressing sexual and gender-based violence cases through DNA analysis to bring closure, while noting that paternity testing is one of several services provided.

The facility's main focus remains resolving cases related to sexual offences, murder and other serious crimes, with paternity matters representing a secondary but important function in Zambia's justice system infrastructure.