This archive report was first published on 29 August 2019.
On August 29, 2019, Kenya took a significant step in its fight against crime by acquiring three DNA analysis machines.
The machines, 3500xL Genetic Analyser, will be used by the Chief Government Chemist at the Nairobi headquarters and at branches in Mombasa and Kisumu.
According to Interior Secretary Fred Matiang'i, the machines will help in conducting DNA tests in criminal investigations, disaster victim identification, and arbitration of disputed paternity.
The new machines offer a shorter average run time and enhanced throughput of samples compared to previous models, providing well-documented evidence that enhances chances of successful prosecutions.
Kenya has long-running murder cases that remain unresolved due to the lack of a forensic laboratory, with efforts to carry out forensic tests abroad being largely prohibitive for most families.
Dr. Matiang'i stated, 'We have been trying to find the best solutions to our challenges in criminal investigation. It is no secret that we have some fairly sensitive but unresolved murder cases in our country. Acquisition of this machine is one of the first steps towards the achievement of our objectives in this field.'
The acquisition of the forensic machines follows the completion of the multi-million shilling National Police Service Forensic Laboratory based at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters on Kiambu Road.
Additionally, the Government Chemist was recently moved to the Ministry of Interior docket to strengthen the working relationship between the Crime Research Centre (CRC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Dr. Matiang'i also announced plans to establish a forensics centre to serve the Northern region and equip the Kisumu and Mombasa branches with ultra-modern forensics equipment.
