WHO African Region emphasizes the need for accelerated efforts to avert millions of deaths by 2050.
BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo (BG) – The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for immediate action to address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Africa, where the misuse of antimicrobials and weak surveillance systems jeopardize health systems and economic stability, according to a statement.
AMR occurs when pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, evolve to resist the drugs designed to eliminate them. This undermines the effectiveness of treatments and leaves many infectious diseases increasingly difficult to treat. In 2019 alone, AMR was directly linked to 1.27 million deaths in sub-Saharan Africa alone.
Without intervention, AMR could result in 4.1 million deaths annually in Africa by 2050.
Through its Regional Strategy for AMR 2023–2030, WHO African Region has supported 47 Member States to develop National Action Plans, with 38 endorsed by national authorities. Despite progress, challenges such as limited funding and inadequate workforce capacity hinder AMR response efforts.
Currently, 43 African countries participate in WHO’s Global AMR Surveillance System (GLASS), although gaps in data collection persist. To address this, WHO is enhancing laboratory capacity, promoting data-driven decisions, and rolling out antimicrobial stewardship training in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Zambia.
This year’s World AMR Awareness Week, themed “Educate. Advocate. Act Now,” emphasizes urgent, coordinated action. Initiatives like Nigeria’s youth ambassador programme, which has trained hundreds of advocates, aim to build awareness and promote responsible antimicrobial use.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, highlighted AMR’s complex impact: “Collaboration is essential to mitigate AMR’s effects and protect public health across the region.”
WHO’s One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, is active in 41 African countries. Sustained funding and political advocacy are crucial to strengthening antimicrobial stewardship and ensuring the availability of effective medicines for future generations.
