The Kenyan government has mandated DNA testing for mothers returning with children born abroad, aiming to combat child trafficking.
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua announced this policy during a Senate appearance, stating that DNA tests will be conducted at entry points to verify biological relationships between mothers and children.
This measure addresses concerns about rising child trafficking cases involving Kenyan women giving birth overseas.
“We will do a DNA test to match the child to the mother and avoid child trafficking,” Mutua stated.
The government is also working to repatriate these women and their children, pledging support for their return.
Further, the government is enhancing support for Kenyan workers abroad by deploying labour attachés to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Switzerland, the UAE, and Germany, with a budget of Ksh 300 million.
However, Mutua’s statements sparked controversy. Senators criticized his comments regarding Kenyan workers’ activism abroad and challenged his claims about their safety.
Kitui Senator Enock Wambua objected to the portrayal of Kenyan workers, while Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi disputed Mutua’s claim of no Kenyan deaths abroad, citing contrary reports.