Antimicrobial Resistance Threatens African Health: Experts Call for Urgent Action
According to recent data, 4.71 million deaths worldwide were linked to bacterial AMR in 2021, with sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest mortality rates.
ABUJA, Nigeria— Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical threat to public health in Africa, with experts calling for urgent, comprehensive strategies to combat its spread, writes Winston Mwale.
According to recent data, 4.71 million deaths worldwide were linked to bacterial AMR in 2021, with sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest mortality rates.
Projections suggest AMR could cause up to 2 million deaths in Africa by 2050.
Ifeyinwa George, a pharmacist and AMR program manager at DRASA Health Trust, outlined key priorities for addressing the challenge.
Governments must develop evidence-based One Health national action plans that are measurable and appropriately funded.
Nigeria's national plan serves as an example, providing a strategic framework tailored to the country's specific needs.
"A well-developed plan is crucial, but without necessary funding, it cannot be implemented," George said. Sustainable domestic health financing is essential to drive AMR initiatives and contain the spread of resistant pathogens.
Community engagement emerges as a critical strategy. DRASA uses innovative approaches, including:
- Communicating in local languages to reduce community hesitancy
- Empowering community-led initiatives
- Leveraging local influencers to champion best practices
- Developing youth-friendly interventions using interactive methods like games and competitions
Young people represent a significant resource in AMR mitigation. The organization has collaborated with WHO to engage over 2,000 AMR ambassadors across 30 Nigerian secondary schools.
Major obstacles to effective AMR strategies include:
- Limited health financing
- Insufficient political commitment
- Low public awareness
- Weak regulatory enforcement
- Inadequate laboratory capacity
"Strengthening surveillance and coordination across sectors is crucial," George emphasized. She recommended promoting local vaccine manufacturing and improving accessibility as key solutions.
The ongoing challenge requires a multi-sectoral approach, combining governmental commitment, community engagement, and targeted educational initiatives to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.