Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) – Hodan Hospital, in Somalia, announced on Saturday the launch of the country’s first DNA testing laboratory. The facility provides services that were previously unavailable inside the country.
For years, Somalis requiring DNA testing — for legal cases, family verification, or medical reasons — had no choice but to travel abroad. The new laboratory is expected to ease that burden and increase access to specialized medical services.
Hodan Hospital Director Mohamed Isak told Dawan Africa that the hospital felt a responsibility to fill this gap. “DNA testing is essential, and as a national hospital we are responsible for making it available here in Somalia,” he said.
Although DNA testing remains sensitive in Somali society — where family matters are often handled privately — medical observers say attitudes are shifting. Younger generations are increasingly open to scientific and medical solutions.
The new lab offers paternity and maternity testing, forensic identification, and medical DNA profiling.
Lab Manager Dr.Avdifitah Abdullahi Jiley noted that the facility was built to international standards. “We are equipped with modern technology and trained specialists to ensure accuracy and confidentiality,” he said.
The launch is seen as a milestone for Somalia’s health sector, which continues to reduce reliance on foreign hospitals for essential services.