02 Jul 2026

Every child deserved to be cared for by both parents, regardless of biological ties, says President Advocate Duma Boko.

Addressing members of Ntlo Ya Dikgosi in Gaborone Monday, President Boko said whether a man was a biological or putative father, the presence of a father figure in a child’s life remained essential.

He said every child deserved the care, love and support of both parents.

A man who has been identified as the father of a child should accept responsibility, regardless of whether a DNA test had been conducted, President Boko said, arguing that even if a DNA test carried out years later established that the child was not biologically his, the man should not react with anger or resentment.

“If, after many years, a DNA test shows that the child is not yours, do not throw tantrums, instead, regard the role you played in raising that child as a noble contribution to society, something to be proud of,” he said.

President Boko questioned whether the increasing emphasis on DNA testing was always in the best interests of children, arguing that society should continue to recognise a residual obligation on adults to care for children, even where biological parentage was disputed.

He challenged dikgosi to thoroughly examine issues surrounding DNA testing and parental responsibility, conduct research and present informed recommendations that could guide national debate and legislative reforms since protecting children’s welfare was a collective responsibility.

Families, communities and government all have a role to play in ensuring every child is raised in a safe and supportive environment, President Boko said.

He also explained that government had accepted its responsibility in children’s upbringing by introducing a monthly P300 child support grant aimed at contributing to their welfare.

Although acknowledging that the amount was not sufficient to meet a child’s needs, President Boko said the initiative demonstrated government’s commitment to ensuring that children were cared for.

“The P300 may not be enough, but it is meant to show that, as a nation, we care about our children,” he said. ENDS