21.11.2024Kigali, Rwanda – November 21, 2024 – Over 500 stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and civil society members, have convened in Kigali today to address the pressing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The national AMR conference is organized in the framework of the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), observed globally from November 18-24.
Held under the theme “Educate. Advocate. Act Now”, the conference emphasizes Rwanda’s commitment to combating antimicrobial resistance through education, advocacy, and action.
“Microbial resistance is not just a scientific challenge. To safeguard the future of medicines, we must act now. Every action we take today shapes the future of medicine. Let’s raise awareness, reduce unsafe, overuse and protect the power of antibiotics for generations to come.” Prof. Claude Mambo Muvunyi Director General of RBC.
The key highlight of the conference is the launch of Rwanda’s AMR National Action Plan 2.0. The plan outlines the strategic interventions to address AMR, providing a roadmap for the government and partners to collaboratively address this global health threat.
Following the conference, a General Meeting of Pharmacists will address their vital role in antimicrobial stewardship and strategies for enhancing their contributions to AMR control efforts.
Also, as part of the WAAW planned activities, AMR advocates with join Kigali residents in mass sports known as Car-Free Day, on November 24, 2024, from 7 AM to 10 AM, to raise public’s understanding of AMR’s risks to public health and society.
Notes to the editors:
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective and infections become difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability and death (WHO).
- AMR is a silent threat to global health. Antimicrobial-resistant organisms spread quickly and can render modern medicine ineffective. With AMR, we risk longer hospital stays, higher mortality, and greater healthcare costs.
- Over 60% of human infections are zoonotic meaning they come from animals. When antimicrobials are misused in livestock, it can create antimicrobial-
For inquiries, please contact the RBC through Rwanda Health Communication Centre: 0783379597
Together, let us unite in our fight against AMR.
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