20 May 2025

Those who are familiar with South Africa’s Utatakho or Zimbabwe’s, The Closure DNA Show should prepare for the launch of Botswana’s own DNA-based reality television programmme.

The country’s first-ever DNA reality show marks a ground-breaking moment in both entertainment and public conversation.

The show titled, The Godfather of DNA, will delve into sensitive and life-altering paternity issues, helping individuals confirm or debunk long-held suspicions through scientifically backed DNA testing.

Spearheading the project is counsellor and film producer, Ndinae Chengeta, who rose to public attention following the viral revelation of his own DNA journey, discovering that a child he believed to be his was not biologically related to him.

In a recent interview, Chengeta shared the inspiration behind the show. “After my story went viral, I realised many people felt comfortable coming to me with DNA-related questions. It started to feel like I had become the go-to person for DNA issues. That’s when the idea struck, why not make DNA testing accessible, and even engaging for the public?”

He added that the concept was further inspired by a report from the Global DNA Diagnostic Centre Botswana, which revealed that 70 per cent of men who took paternity tests between 2022 and 2025 were not the biological fathers of the children in question.

“I believe that percentage could be even higher if testing were done more broadly across a random sample,” he said.

The show is expected to feature at least 13 episodes, and discussions are underway to air it on Moja Love, a popular channel available on DStv across Africa, including Botswana. 

The programme will include professional pre- and post-test counselling, input from expert DNA analysts, and guidance from a legal team to support participants through the emotional and legal complexities of their results.

Chengeta confirmed that a legal firm has already partnered with the show, with sponsorship of about P200 000 to support its first season.

“We aim to provide a safe platform where people can undergo DNA testing with proper emotional support, without causing harm to themselves or others,” he said and emphasised that the show’s intention was not to shame or ridicule, but to encourage Batswana to view DNA testing as a responsible and normal step. Importantly, the identities of all children involved will be kept strictly confidential.

Public interest has surged, with over 40 couples from across Botswana expressing a desire to participate in the show’s debut season. Thirteen couples have already been selected, and filming is set to begin in Gaborone on June 1.

“We’re still receiving inquiries every day, but for now, we’re focusing on the first 13 participants,” said Chengeta, hinting that a second season may follow if the initial run proves successful.

The official premiere date and broadcast schedule will be announced in the coming weeks. ENDS