UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | Parliament has authorised the allocation of USh34.4 billion to the Directorate of Government Analytical Laboratory (DGAL) to proceed with phase two of the construction of the national DNA databank.
The completion of this databank is anticipated to bolster national security and enhance criminal investigations, as stated by Kepher Kuchana Kateu, the director of DGAL.
The House was informed that the finance ministry had initially disbursed USh15.7 billion out of the total required amount of USh50 billion for the project, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
In its latest report on the National Budget Framework Paper for the financial years 2024/25 to 2028/29, Parliament’s budget committee highlighted the progress made in the preparatory phases of the DNA databank construction.
The report, approved by the House on January 31, 2024, noted that the Uganda Land Commission had processed a land title for DGAL, and the architectural designs for the building had received approval from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
Additionally, the procurement process was completed during the financial year 2022/23, and the construction site was handed over to the contractor.
Chairing the committee, Patrick Isiagi Opolot, the MP for Kachumbala County, disclosed that phase two of the construction is scheduled to commence during the financial year 2024/25.
However, he emphasised that only USh15.7 billion had been allocated out of the required USh50 billion, resulting in a funding shortfall of USh34.3 billion.
Opolot proposed an additional allocation of USh34.3 billion to DGAL to facilitate the continuation of phase two, with the remaining funds to be provided over the medium term.
As construction progresses on the DNA databank, stakeholders anticipate significant improvements in criminal identification and prosecution processes, ultimately contributing to enhanced public safety and security across the country.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
Uganda’s High Commission in Canada Faces Backlash Over House Plans
President Museveni Greenlights Transformation of Luzira Prison into Luxury Hotel
