In a significant move to combat child trafficking, the Kenyan government has mandated that citizens returning from abroad with children undergo DNA testing to confirm maternal relationships. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua announced this directive during a Senate session earlier today, stating that the tests will be conducted upon arrival at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The initiative aims to address the increasing cases of child trafficking by verifying the biological connection between mothers and their children.

This policy aligns with ongoing efforts to regulate citizenship applications for individuals of Kenyan descent living in the diaspora. The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Bill, 2024, proposes that applicants provide proof of Kenyan ancestry, a clean criminal record, and undergo genetic genealogy testing administered by Kenyan authorities. Introduced by Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, the bill seeks to streamline the citizenship process for those with Kenyan roots.

However, recent developments have raised concerns about the affordability of DNA testing services. The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) announced an increase in DNA test prices by Ksh7,000, following new directives. KEMRI’s laboratory offers services in paternity and family relationship testing, adhering to international standards. This price hike may impact many, especially those seeking to comply with the new government mandates.