As ReAct celebrates two decades of action on antibiotic resistance, we’re taking this moment to hear from colleagues across our global network. In this interview series, team members from different nodes share their reflections on ReAct’s journey, the challenges we’ve faced, and what continues to inspire our collective work.
Second out is Olen Hamatanga, one of our newest team members and Project Operations Associate at ReAct Africa. Olen brings a fresh perspective on ReAct’s legacy and its continued relevance in today’s global health landscape.
What inspired you to join ReAct, and how has your journey been so far?
– I joined ReAct in March 2024, motivated by a deep commitment to ensuring that people everywhere can access safe and timely treatment.
– My interest lies particularly in improving health-seeking behaviors, which are critical to address antibiotic and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). What drew me was ReAct, its unwavering focus on equity and community-driven solutions.
– So far, the journey has been both inspiring and challenging in the best way.
What do you think makes ReAct’s approach to AMR unique?
– ReAct stands out for its pioneering, holistic approach to AMR.
– Unlike many organizations that focus predominantly on technical or clinical interventions, ReAct emphasizes a systems-thinking perspective that also focuses on Implementation science. It recognizes the importance of integrating social, economic, and political factors into AMR strategies.
– Furthermore, ReAct’s deep commitment to empowering local communities and building capacity at the grassroots level including the youth ensures that solutions are sustainable and context-specific.
How has working at ReAct influenced your perspective on public health and antibiotic resistance?
– Working with ReAct has given me a completely new perspective on public health. I used to think of it as purely scientific. But through my work with ReAct, I’ve come to understand the complex interplay between social and natural sciences when it comes to antibiotics and disease.
– This is because people are at the heart of many public health challenges, like antibiotic resistance, and how we respond to them. Communities play a central role, and that makes behavioral science a key tool in tackling these threats.
ReAct celebrates 20 years of action on antibiotic resistance!
The story of ReAct began 20 years ago with a small group of passionate global health advocates, several of whom are still part of the network today. Driven by the urgency of antibiotic resistance, ReAct has grown into a global movement with offices across four continents, influencing policy, empowering communities, and shaping governance.
Despite progress, global efforts remain insufficient, and urgent action is needed. ReAct remains committed to driving stronger responses to safeguard effective antibiotics for all.
ReAct’s 20-year journey has transformed AMR governance, strengthened health systems, and mobilized communities worldwide. As we look to the future, we invite partners and funders to join us in scaling impact, driving innovation, and securing sustainable solutions — for a world free from untreatable infections.