Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) diminishes effectiveness of antimicrobial medicines against common infections in humans, animals, and plants jeopardising global health, food security, and sustainable development
Recognising the urgency of this challenge, Rwanda along with continued technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), has taken a step forward in its national efforts to combat AMR with the official validation and online release of its updated National Action Plan (NAP II) for the period 2025–2029.
The newly published NAP (2025-2029) provides a unified strategic framework for Rwanda to prevent, slow down, and control the spread of resistant organisms. It emphasises the optimal use of antimicrobials and aims to ensure the continuous availability of safe and effective medicines, a cornerstone for protecting human, animal, and environmental health.
Through a comprehensive assessment and prioritisation ion of activities jointly using FAO Progressive Management Pathway for AMR (PMP-AMR) and FAO Assessment Tool for Laboratories and AMR Surveillance Systems (FAO-ATLASS) for five days, countries could assess the implementation of the first AMR-NAP and identify the next steps to enhance the level and inform the revision process. The FAO has helped secure official endorsement and publication of the NAP, making this vital strategic document accessible to all stakeholders and the international community, a testament to transparency and commitment.
Therefore, not only does the NAP provide Rwanda with a clear roadmap to address AMR, it also strengthens its capacity to contribute to regional and global efforts to mitigate this pervasive threat.