The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a critical global public health issue as of October 2024. In response, WHO has recommended a range of measures, including advocacy and collaboration, as key strategies to combat this growing threat.

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve over time and no longer respond to the medicines used to treat them. This makes infections more difficult to manage, increasing the risk of disease spread and complicating treatment options.

This was revealed during an informative and engaging webinar held on November 2, 2024, in preparation for the upcoming World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW), scheduled from November 18 to 24.

The webinar, aimed at supporting the fight against AMR, brought together a diverse group of professionals from JKUAT and other institutions. It facilitated meaningful interactions with students and encouraged discussions on collaborative strategies.

This year’s theme, “Educate. Advocate. Act Now”, underscores the urgent need for collective action in combating antimicrobial resistance.

The event focused on promoting a unified approach, known as “One Health,” which acknowledges the interconnectedness of humans, animals, and the environment in addressing AMR. Participants explored how combined efforts can help combat antimicrobial resistance and enhance health outcomes across the board.

Ms. Emmah Nyaboke, a teaching assistant from the Department of Animal Science at JKUAT, was one of the speakers at the webinar emphasized the role of medical and pharmacy students in managing AMR through education, policy advocacy, and research.

The teaching assistant encouraged students to advocate for the correct use of antibiotics and become actively involved in shaping policies related to AMR.

“Continue raising awareness through workshops, collaborate across various fields on the One Health forum, and engage in community outreach to promote the proper use of antibiotics,” Ms. Nyaboke advised.

She urged students to take an active role in public discussions surrounding policy-making, underscoring the importance of their voices in shaping the future of AMR management.

Ms. Nyaboke also highlighted the importance of students participating in research initiatives within medical schools, stressing that their involvement ensures the integration of the latest findings on antibiotics into policies, promoting an evidence-based approach to combating antibiotic resistance.

Mr. Matthew Kipkosgei, a teaching assistant in the Department of Animal Health, shared his efforts to inspire youth research on AMR, in alignment with the Kenya National Action Plan for the containment and prevention of AMR (2023-2027).