The Bioinformatics Institute of Kenya provides reliable DNA testing services in Nairobi and across Kenya. This page answers the most frequently asked questions about DNA paternity testing, prenatal DNA testing (NIPT), baby gender tests, newborn screening, carrier genetic screening and SRY gender testing. If you are looking for accurate and confidential DNA testing in Kenya, the information below explains how DNA tests work, how samples are collected, how long results take, and how to order a DNA test.
A DNA test analyzes genetic material to determine biological relationships or identify inherited traits and genetic conditions.
The Bioinformatics Institute of Kenya offers DNA testing services in Nairobi and provides DNA testing services across Kenya.
Modern DNA tests can confirm paternity with up to 99.99% probability or exclude a man as the biological father with 100% certainty.
Results are usually available within 5–10 working days after the laboratory receives all required samples.
Yes. Cheek swab samples can be collected at home using a DNA collection kit.
Common DNA samples include cheek swabs, blood, hair with roots, fingernails, saliva, earbuds, semen, toothbrush, and other biological materials. Click here to see the full list of all acceptable samples.
A DNA paternity test determines whether a man is the biological father of a child.
The mother's sample is optional but including it may strengthen the statistical analysis.
Yes. Alternative relatives such as grandparents, siblings, or uncles may be tested.
The probability of paternity is a statistical value indicating the likelihood that a tested man is the biological father.
DNA testing typically costs between 15,000 KSh and 20,000 KSh per participant depending on the type of test and sample type.
DNA tests can be performed at the Bioinformatics Institute of Kenya laboratory in Nairobi.
Hospitals may collect samples but specialized genetic laboratories perform the DNA analysis.
NIPT analyzes fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to detect genetic conditions during pregnancy.
NIPT can usually be performed from the 10th week of pregnancy.
Yes. The test only requires a blood sample from the mother and poses no risk to the fetus.
NIPT can detect chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and Patau syndrome.
This test analyzes fetal DNA circulating in the mother's blood to determine the biological sex of the baby.
The test can usually be performed from the 8th week of pregnancy.
The test can determine fetal sex with up to 99% accuracy when performed at the recommended stage of pregnancy.
The test detects the presence or absence of the Y chromosome in fetal DNA found in the mother's blood.
Newborn screening detects certain genetic or metabolic disorders shortly after birth.
Early detection allows treatment before symptoms develop, preventing serious health problems.
Conditions may include phenylketonuria (PKU), galactosemia, congenital hypothyroidism and other metabolic disorders.
A small blood sample is usually collected from the baby's heel and analyzed in the laboratory.
Carrier screening determines whether an individual carries genes for certain inherited disorders.
Carrier screening is recommended for couples planning a pregnancy or those with a family history of genetic disorders.
Carrier screening can detect conditions such as sickle cell disease, thalassemia and cystic fibrosis.
The test is usually performed using a blood or saliva sample.
The SRY test detects the presence of the SRY gene located on the Y chromosome to determine biological sex.
The test may be used in competitive sports to verify biological sex in certain athletic competitions.
DNA from a cheek swab or blood sample is analyzed for the presence of the SRY gene.
A positive result indicates the presence of the Y chromosome and therefore male biological sex.
It means the tested man is extremely likely to be the biological father of the child.
DNA exclusion means the tested man cannot be the biological father.
You can order a DNA test by contacting the laboratory or submitting a request through the online order form