NUST Struggles To Process DNA Samples Due To Reagent Shortages

The National University of Science and Technology (NUST) is facing a backlog of more than 300 DNA tests, leaving hundreds of clients, including people involved in court cases and family disputes, waiting for results.

 

The delays are caused by difficulties in obtaining important imported reagents needed for testing.

 

Thabani Mpofu, NUST’s director of communication and marketing, said the shortage of essential reagents was the main reason for the delays. He said:

 

“We have a backlog of tests of about 300 cases, covering both forensic and paternity tests. These are cases that we are supposed to conduct and complete, and we are currently working to clear that backlog.

 

“As you may be aware, these reagents are all imported. The importation process delayed the arrival of the reagents that we use for testing.”

 

Mpofu said the university has now received the reagents and is working to clear the backlog.

 

He added that it will take between two and three weeks to process all outstanding cases before normal operations can resume.

 

The institution expects full DNA testing services to be restored by the end of January, once all accumulated cases have been completed.