By Indileni Laudika Kawedi
The recent proposal to introduce mandatory DNA paternity testing in Namibia has sparked passionate debate across the nation. While I do not condone the act of mothers knowingly assigning the wrong paternity, I also believe that every child has a fundamental right not just to know the father but to be loved, protected, and raised in a nurturing environment, regardless of biological ties.
Even though DNA paternity testing might define genetic or biological parenthood, the crux of the matter that comes with fatherhood is love, presence, and fatherly responsibilities. If Namibia were to undertake a mandatory DNA paternity testing for all its citizens, we might be stunned by the results. Some of those who have grown up in loving homes, certain of their parentage, might discover otherwise. What then? Would we dismantle the bonds of love and care that have raised generations?
Let us not ignore the fact that some men already know that the children they raised are not biologically theirs. Yet, they choose to love, support, and protect them often in silence for reasons only known to them. That decision is deeply personal, and it is no one’s business to interfere. Similarly, many couples, through modern reproductive assistance or traditional arrangements, knowingly choose unconventional paths to parenthood. Again, this is private.
It is true that knowing one’s biological parents can be important for medical, legal, or forensic reasons, such as in cases of blood transfusions, organ matching, or criminal investigations. In such instances, provisions for DNA relationship testing already exist and are appropriately utilized. But to make DNA paternity testing mandatory for the general population, especially as a requirement for registration or documentation, sets a dangerous precedent. It transforms a personal and often sensitive process into a bureaucratic obligation.
Let us not forget that the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security already allows mothers to register a child’s birth without including the father’s details. This is particularly helpful in cases where paternity is uncertain, or the alleged father is absent or has denied the paternity child. No man is being forced to claim a child without his consent, and therefore, the justification for a compulsory paternity test at registration is not entirely required.
Moreover, DNA relationship testing is expensive. It is not a public health necessity that warrants free, government funded administration. It does not prevent disease or enhance national security. It is, for most people, a cosmetic or personal decision, one that should be paid for by those who need it or want it. In some situations, such as in accidents covered by the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund or in legal investigations, DNA relationship testing is already appropriately funded.
While I encourage the idea of making DNA paternity tests more accessible and affordable, especially in the private sector, this must not come at the cost of individual dignity and privacy. Imagine a man, married or single, waiting in a public clinic reception area for a paternity test. Assumptions, whispers, and judgment can deeply impact personal relationships and mental health. DNA paternity testing is a private affair. It involves sensitive emotions, trust, and sometimes betrayal. Public facilities are not the right space for such deeply personal matters.
Let us also be honest that this is not just about women. Men, too, have been unfaithful. Some seek DNA paternity tests not out of truth seeking but out of suspicion, sometimes while maintaining other relationships. So, before we point fingers, we must look inward and acknowledge the complexity of human relationships.
My advocacy is simple to make DNA paternity testing available and affordable for those who wish to do it, but do not make it mandatory. Do not make it a requirement for birth registration. Let individuals choose to seek the truth when they are emotionally, financially, and spiritually ready. If a child later wishes to know their origins, let them pursue that journey in their own time, whether through paternity, sibling, or kinship testing same goes for the alleged father.
As I conclude, please ponder this question:
What about those who do not want to know, and what about those who already know but choose not to confirm?
*Indileni Laudika Kawedi has expertise in Marketing, Project Management, Business Development, and Current Affairs. She can be contacted at laudikakawedi@gmail.com.
