By Staff Reporter
A bold proposal by Spencer Tshuma, the Member of Parliament for Gokwe–Kabuyuni, has sparked national debate after he suggested that all newborn babies in Zimbabwe should undergo mandatory DNA testing before birth certificates are issued.
Tshuma believes the measure would decisively end long-standing paternity disputes that have affected many families and communities across the country. According to the legislator, attaching DNA results to birth certificates would provide clear and indisputable proof of parentage, protecting both fathers and children from future conflicts.
Speaking on the proposal, Tshuma said mandatory DNA testing would ensure that children rightfully inherit from their biological fathers while preventing situations where men are forced to provide financial support for children who are not genetically theirs.
“Establishing paternity at birth will remove doubt and unnecessary disputes later in life. It is a matter of fairness and justice for both fathers and children,” he said.
The MP argued that the absence of clear paternity verification has led to numerous legal battles, emotional distress, and financial burdens for families. By introducing DNA verification at birth, Tshuma believes the country can promote transparency, accountability and responsible fatherhood.
To make the proposal practical, Tshuma urged the government to invest in modern testing facilities in hospitals nationwide. He emphasized that DNA testing must be made affordable and accessible to ordinary citizens so that no family is disadvantaged by the cost of the process.
“If hospitals are equipped with the necessary DNA testing infrastructure, the process can be conducted immediately after birth. This will allow authorities to attach verified parentage details to birth certificates before they are issued,” he said.
Tshuma also noted that the policy could help strengthen family structures by removing suspicion and mistrust between partners. In addition, he believes it would safeguard children’s legal rights, particularly when it comes to inheritance, maintenance and identity.
The proposal has already generated mixed reactions from members of the public, with some supporting the idea as a progressive solution to paternity disputes, while others raise concerns about privacy, costs and the ethical implications of mandatory testing.
However, Tshuma insists that the long-term benefits outweigh the challenges. He maintains that establishing biological truth from the beginning would create a more transparent and responsible society.