By Munacho Gwamanda- A growing number of Zimbabwean men are discovering they have been unknowingly raising children who are not biologically theirs, as DNA testing exposes shocking levels of paternity fraud.

According to Global DNA Zimbabwe, 72% of paternity tests conducted reveal that the presumed fathers are not the biological parents—a statistic that has left many families shattered.

The surge in DNA testing can largely be attributed to Tinashe Mugabe, the founder of Global DNA Zimbabwe and host of the controversial television program, The Closure DNA Show. 

Launched in 2021, the show has become infamous for its dramatic on-air paternity revelations that have led to public outbursts, heartbreak, and family breakdowns.

Mugabe’s show features individuals—mostly men—seeking DNA tests to confirm paternity.

The results are revealed on air, often leading to explosive emotional reactions from those involved. 

The show has sparked fierce debate, with supporters praising it for exposing the truth, while critics argue it is sensationalizing private matters and humiliating families.

Partners Chiriseri, a representative from Global DNA Zimbabwe, revealed to a local health news portal that suspicions of infidelity drive most men to request paternity tests. He explained:

“The current statistics for people who have undergone testing are both shocking and interesting. Most clients come for paternity tests, and currently, 72% of the results issued are negative, while only 28% are positive.”

For many men, these revelations come as a devastating betrayal, leading to the collapse of marriages and long-standing relationships.

Some fathers cut ties with the children they once loved, while others struggle with the emotional turmoil of continuing to raise a child they are not biologically connected to.

Despite the controversy, Mugabe defends the show, arguing that DNA testing empowers individuals with the truth, allowing them to make informed decisions about their relationships and responsibilities.

While paternity tests dominate DNA services in Zimbabwe, Chiriseri highlighted that DNA testing serves several other critical functions, including:

• Immigration applications – Many countries, including the UK and the US, require DNA proof of biological relationships for visa approvals.
• DNA profiling for future use – Some individuals store their genetic information for potential identification in cases of accidents or missing persons.
• Criminal investigations – DNA is increasingly used in rape cases and forensic investigations, helping authorities identify suspects.

Countries like the United States already have national DNA databases for criminals. If Zimbabwe were to adopt a similar system, it could revolutionize crime-solving efforts.

The rise of DNA testing has ignited a cultural shift in Zimbabwe, challenging long-held beliefs about trust, family, and fatherhood. 

While some men appreciate the certainty that DNA tests provide, others argue that this trend is destroying families and promoting suspicion.

Sources: Health Times