Finally, Zambia has DNA testing lab

AFTER loss of many lives Government has finally managed to respond to the need for

Mr Storella(r) shakes hand with Mr Lungu

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) laboratory
Yesterday the country launched its first DNA-forensic laboratory which will help law enforcement agencies track down killers as the country experiences an unprecedented rise in unsolved murders.
The establishment of a forensic laboratory would also save Government revenue as DNA tests were conducted outside the country mainly in South Africa.
Home Affairs Minister, Edgar Lungu said this at the inauguration of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to create a Police forensic laboratory and the children’s advocacy programme in Lusaka yesterday.
“Government has spent billions of Kwacha on DNA and other tests undertaken outside the country due to lack of the DNA lab. Additionally, a lot of cases before the courts of law related to murder, defilement, GBV and child abuse have been lost due to lack of forensic evidence.
“The establishment of the laboratory will help save Government revenue as well as help officers in security agencies to successfully prosecute offenders of such crimes as DNA tests will this time be undertaken within the country,” Mr Lungu said.
He said the setting up of a laboratory had come when murder cases especially those involving women and taxi drivers were causing a puzzle among investigative wings.
He expressed Government’s commitment to fighting Gender Based Violence and child abuse crimes.
Mr Lungu thanked the United States Government for collaborating efforts with Zambia in setting up the laboratory.
On the child advocacy programme, Mr Lungu said this would help in implementing proactive interventional measures on crimes against children such as defilement and the GBV cases.
US ambassador to Zambia Mark Storella said the launch would help Zambia in its resolve to curb rising murder and GBV cases.
Mr Storella said Zambia was a leader in the region in both providing services in GBV related cases and developing a model law.
“The US is pleased to participate in this historic partnership that will improve service delivery and develop a holistic and sustainable approach to support some of the most vulnerable groups in this country,” he said.
He said the US being the largest contributor to the PPP, Zambia’s commitment and investment to improve prosecution of child sexual abuse and GBV, deserved praise as the best case example of country ownership.
The US government has also provided expertise from Sorenson Forensics, one of the pioneers and innovators in forensic laboratory works.
Mr Storella said a partnership with Zambia was critical to develop the new laboratory and provide technical assistance and train staff to process specimens and use the technology to ensure accurate and clear-cut results.
“We believe that working together as governments and the private sector, we can make a greater impact and that by improving justice and strengthening support, we can help heal the wounds of those who have been harmed and prevent others from suffering these injuries,” he said.