The Uganda Police Forensic Laboratory has been given the thumbs up by the health ministry.

The development means that the lab has met all the necessary requirements and standards to carry out DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) testing services. 

The forensic laboratory has also been added to the database of gazetted/certified facilities, thus indicating that they are officially recognised and registered as a trusted and reliable place to have DNA tests done. 

The laboratory, which is based at Police headquarters at Naguru in Kampala, was commissioned on January 28, 2021, by Principal Judge Flavian Zeija.

While commissioning the facility, Zeija said the Police leadership must be in a position to train more officers, especially in forensic science in order to have more manpower to run the facility.

He also said that there must be co-ordination and integration of database between institutions such as Police, NIRA, DPP and the court for the success of the project.

DNA testing is a fascinating field that involves analyzing DNA samples to identify or determine individuals' familial relationships and even solve crimes. It's like something straight out of a thrilling crime drama, except it's real life!

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga said: Having a certified forensic laboratory in Uganda is a great step forward in the field of criminal justice.

It allows law enforcement agencies to gather important evidence and make informed decisions based on accurate DNA analysis. It's all about using science to bring justice and peace to our society.

According to a statement, the Police DNA and forensic testing service has a laboratory, that is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and facilities to perform a broad range of forensic DNA testing services, for evidential material, in support of investigations by Police. 

"The tests include dead body identification, DNA paternity, maternity. Sibling and kinship testing in criminal investigations, immigration DNA testing, cell line authentication and DNA profile," the statement reads.

According to the Police, the laboratory will also work with medical officers, from the health ministry, who handle evidential material for DNA analysis, to ensure that the identification, collection, packaging, storage and transportation of the evidential material attains acceptable international standards.