From December 2-6, 2024, the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM), in collaboration with key partners, conducted the Mapping Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Use Partnership (MAAP) Phase II Training in Tanzania. This initiative aimed to enhance national capacity for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Antimicrobial Consumption (AMC), and Antimicrobial Use (AMU) surveillance systems, following the Integrated AMR Surveillance Guidance for the Africa Region, https://aslm.org/3d-flip-book/antimicrobial-resistance-surveillance-guidance-for-the-african-region-first-edition-2024/
The training brought together over 70 participants from 20 institutions, including public and private hospitals, veterinary laboratories, national quality control facilities, and universities. Participants represented diverse sectors such as human and animal health, with roles including laboratory scientists, microbiologists, pharmacists, clinicians, and data managers. These participants play critical roles in AMR surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities in the country.
Key objectives of the training included:
- Strengthening knowledge and skills for AMR, AMC, and AMU surveillance.
- Enhancing proficiency in AMR-related tools to improve surveillance systems.
- Building capacity in governance, quality assurance, monitoring, and evaluation.
- Improving data collection, management, and analysis in line with global frameworks, such as WHO GLASS.
The workshop was opened by a representative from the Ministry of Health in Tanzania, who underscored the need for data-driven action, strong partnerships, and commitment to addressing AMR.
“Through innovation, collaboration, and excellence, we can transform AMR data into solutions that save lives and secure a healthier future.” – Daudi Msasi, Chief Pharmacist & Secretary, AMR MCC Tanzania. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) and all in-country partners for their leadership and support. Together, we are building stronger systems to fight AMR and protect communities across Africa.
Participants left the training with actionable insights to implement AMS programs, enhance data-driven decision-making, and improve patient outcomes. They were also assigned the responsibility of disseminating the acquired knowledge to colleagues at their institutions, thereby advancing the implementation of Tanzania’s National Action Plan on AMR (2023–2028). Additionally, this initiative aims to strengthen intersectoral collaboration among national AMR stakeholders to address this critical global health threat.
“One of the participants, George Mrema, an epidemiologist at the Ministry of Health in Dodoma, shared that through this training, he gained a clear understanding of the differences between AMR, AMU, and AMC. He noted that previously, AMU and AMC were only conducted at the national level, but now, thanks to the training, they are equipped to carry out these activities at the regional level, an area within their control.”
The MAAP Phase II Training underscores the importance of communication, preparedness, and collaboration in combating AMR. Its outcomes will directly support Tanzania’s efforts to build resilient health systems capable of addressing AMR threats.
ASLM remains committed to supporting such initiatives across Africa, ensuring a coordinated and sustainable approach to tackling AMR.