African countries suffer from the burden of infectious diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. Both treatments of infections as well as most modern medical procedures rely on functioning antibiotics. The Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) paper published in 2022 provides a helpful global estimate of the burden of AMR, with new evidence showing that Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a leading cause of death globally, higher than HIV/AIDS or Malaria. New estimates have revealed that at least 1.27 million deaths in 2019 were attributable to AMR. Therefore, antibiotic resistance is a major threat in Africa and requires a range of interventions and a multidisciplinary approach.
ReAct Africa brings together experts and key stakeholders to form technical working groups on antimicrobial resistance. We provide technical assistance in the development and implementation of the National Action Plans. ReAct Africa takes on a holistic perspective and raises awareness by informing the general public and the health, veterinarian, agricultural and environmental sectors about antibiotic resistance. ReAct Africa increases collaboration with other relevant networks and organizations and advocates for concerted action on antibiotic resistance.
In 2015, the World Health Assembly called on all Member States to develop and have in place by 2017, National Action Plans on antimicrobial resistance that are aligned with the objectives of the Global Action Plan. Although some considerable progress has been made, major gaps still exist in Africa and require urgent action.
ReAct Africa supports countries in developing their National Action Plans from the initiation till the end. ReAct Africa has supported the development of National Action Plans in Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
We bring experts and stakeholders together to lobby for technical working groups, provide assistance for situation analysis and advise on the process of the development of the National Action Plans, including the use of the ReAct Toolbox Materials