The Government of Botswana observed World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2024 (18–24 November) under the theme, “Educate, Advocate, Act Now”, at the Machaneng Main Kgotla in the Mahalapye District on 22 November 2024. Organized by the Department of Veterinary Services under the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, the event brought together key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI), the National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI), the Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority (BOMRA), Members of Parliament, the District Commissioner, traditional leaders, community members, and students from Mosikari Junior Secondary School. The gathering aimed to highlight the growing global health challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which threatens the effective treatment of infections and endangers public health progress, particularly in Africa.

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites develop resistance to medicines that once controlled them effectively. This resistance undermines the treatment of infectious diseases, increases healthcare costs, and places significant burdens on health systems and economies. Vulnerable populations are particularly at risk. WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, described AMR as one of the most pressing health threats of our time. In 2021, AMR contributed to an estimated 4.71 million deaths globally, with 1.14 million directly attributed to bacterial resistance. Sub-Saharan Africa bore the brunt of these losses, highlighting the urgent need for action. By 2050, AMR could cause nearly 2 million deaths annually, drive up healthcare costs by $1 trillion, and reduce GDP across Africa by as much as $3.4 trillion annually. Dr. Moetapele Letshwenyo, Regional Representative for WOAH, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. He stressed that AMR is exacerbated by the misuse of antimicrobials in agriculture, animal husbandry, and environmental practices such as improper waste disposal. Dr. Letshwenyo called for prioritizing vaccination to reduce reliance on antibiotics in livestock production, ensuring sustainable practices that protect both human and animal health.

Further emphasizing the role of prevention, Mr. Andrew Madeswi, CEO of the Botswana Vaccine Institute, highlighted the critical contribution of vaccines in reducing disease prevalence and dependency on antibiotics. To support education, the institute donated a P35,000 printing set to Mosikari Junior and Machaneng Primary Schools, aiming to enhance educational resources and improve student outcomes. WHO Botswana’s Officer in Charge also addressed the audience, providing an update on regional efforts to combat AMR. WHO has supported all 47 African Member States in developing costed National Action Plans to guide their responses to AMR. These plans are complemented by leadership training in 17 countries to strengthen governance and coordination. Surveillance systems have been expanded, with 41 African countries now participating in global AMR monitoring and 17 adapting their policies based on data insights. Education is a critical pillar in the fight against AMR. Raising awareness about the responsible use of antimicrobials among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities is essential. Misuse and overuse of antimicrobials remain major drivers of resistance. Without widespread understanding of the risks associated with AMR, behavior change will be difficult to achieve. Advocacy is equally vital, requiring collaboration among governments, health systems, academia, industry, media, and civil society to promote policies and practices that curb the misuse of antimicrobials.

Action on the ground is crucial. WHO’s Regional Antimicrobial Stewardship Training Package, piloted in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia, has trained over 70 health personnel in cost-effective antimicrobial stewardship practices. Efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation, strengthen infection prevention measures, and promote vaccination programs remain essential components of the AMR response. As the commemoration concluded, the government of Botswana, along with healthcare professionals, community leaders, and institutional partners, reaffirmed their commitment to tackling AMR. The cost of inaction is too high for Africa’s health systems and economies. Addressing AMR requires a comprehensive approach that fosters collaboration, increases awareness, and drives immediate action. WHO remains steadfast in its support for countries in the African Region, facilitating knowledge sharing, strengthening health systems, and engaging diverse stakeholders to combat this urgent global health threat.