This archive report was first published on 23 December 2019.
As the world grapples with the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Kenya is taking a proactive approach to combat the misuse of antibiotics. According to estimates, the misuse of antibiotics could lead to 10 million deaths worldwide by 2050.
The issue is particularly pressing in Kenya, where the abuse of antibiotics has contributed to the accelerated development of AMR microorganisms that cause infections and diseases. The agriculture sector is also affected, with animal health, welfare, and productivity relying heavily on antimicrobial products for treatment, prevention, and control of diseases.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri emphasized the importance of responsible use of veterinary medicinal products, stating, 'The emergence of antimicrobial resistance therefore poses a critical threat to animal health in view of the low level of development of new antimicrobial for the animal sector in poor countries.'
The UK government, through the Fleming Fund, is supporting Kenya in strengthening its surveillance systems for antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial use. This initiative aims to generate relevant data to better understand the scale and scope of the problem and inform policy interventions and resource allocation.
Victor Yamo, an official with the World Animal Protection, highlighted the need for awareness and education among consumers and farmers about the misuse of antibiotics. He pointed out that weak regulations and the availability of antibiotics over the counter have contributed to the problem.
Dr. Yamo also emphasized the importance of proper handling and disposal of antibiotics, stating, 'We have farmers who take their products to the market before the withdrawal dates and this is how consumers end up ingesting these antibiotics.'
Regional representative for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Rudi Eggers underscored the severity of the AMR threat, stating, 'AMR endangers health security and progress towards universal health coverage, by threatening to reverse medical advances of the twentieth century.'
He highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat AMR, including the implementation of 'One Health' national action plans that bring together different sectors and disciplines to build stronger regulatory systems, improve surveillance, and develop policies to promote appropriate antibiotic use.
