A Landmark Initiative Against Antimicrobial Resistance

In a bold move to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across Africa, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is spearheading crucial initiatives aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities among African Union Member States.

From South Sudan to South Africa: A Learning Exchange

Recently, a delegation of experts from South Sudan's health ministries visited South Africa's National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) to engage in an intensive learning exchange. This partnership aims to bolster South Sudan's national AMR surveillance system by tapping into South Africa's advanced practices.

"This visit is a monumental step for South Sudan as we aim to adapt this knowledge to develop our national AMR surveillance plan," stated Dr. Abe Abias, Head of the AMR Program in South Sudan.

Strengthening Connections and Capacity

According to Fowzia Mohamed Sheikh, AMR Officer for the Eastern Regional Collaboration Center, South Sudan is embarking on its AMR surveillance journey. The insights gained from South Africa's established system are expected to be transformative.

Sheikh highlighted the formation of a strong partnership between the two nations, with South African experts poised to assist in reviewing South Sudan’s draft National AMR Surveillance Plan.

Key Outcomes and Future Directions

During their five-day visit, the South Sudanese delegation saw firsthand the inner workings of NICD laboratories, participated in antimicrobial susceptibility testing procedures, and gained valuable knowledge on incorporating AMR data into national health frameworks.

The collaborative effort will lead to the development of a tailored National AMR Surveillance Plan, essential for the phased rollout and expansion of surveillance efforts in South Sudan.

A Regional Leader in AMR Initiative

The NICD continues its vital role as a leader in the region, fostering collaborative learning initiatives. Professor Olga Perovic, Principal Pathologist at NICD-CHARM, confirmed, "NICD will persist in supporting South Sudan and other AU Member States through continued exchange visits in partnership with Africa CDC."

Addressing a Growing Global Threat

Africa CDC's AMR Surveillance Exchange Visit Initiative was born out of the alarming AMR crisis, which led to nearly 1.3 million deaths in Africa in 2019. Despite this dire need, many nation-states still lack effective surveillance infrastructures.

Africa CDC is dedicated to working with AU Member States on addressing AMR surveillance challenges, striving to elevate standards in AMR prevention and control.

Investing in the Future of Health

As the continent confronts the patchy surveillance systems prevalent, particularly in low-income countries, these international collaborations are poised to enhance capacities and fight against AMR effectively. With these concerted efforts, the future of health in Africa looks increasingly promising.