The ASLM team participates in the Roche meeting

 This week, The African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) is proud to highlight its crucial role in combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in the African region during the high-level discussions at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). ASLM’s efforts in strengthening laboratory systems, enhancing surveillance, and advocating for policy changes are at the forefront of the global fight against this growing health threat.          

The AMR Crisis in Africa: A Growing Concern                                                                                 

Antimicrobial Resistance is a significant public health challenge in Africa, where the misuse and overuse of antibiotics have accelerated the emergence and spread of resistant infections. Without immediate and coordinated action, AMR is projected to cause approximately 4.5 million deaths in Africa by 2050.

ASLM and its consortium partners have worked to provide a baseline quantification of antimicrobial resistance and consumption in 14 priority countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The Mapping Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Consumption (MAAP) project has reviewed a total of 50,000 medical laboratories, selected over 200 sites, and digitized nearly one million retrospective AMR data. Additionally, MAAP has collected and analyzed antimicrobial consumption (AMC) data from pharmacies and central procurement units, revealing critical insights, including:

• Only 1.3% of laboratories selected could conduct basic bacteriology testing
• When available, AMR surveillance data indicated high levels of AMR
• The lack of access to recommended essential antibiotic combined with the circulation of unregulated antimicrobials, in the context of weak systems to routinely collect information on usage and/or consumption of antibiotics.

A group photo of the Fleming fund AMR meeting

These findings have established a baseline that informs AMR action plans, public health decision and various AMR containment interventions at local, national or regional level in sub-Saharan Africa. The inaugural analysis of the AMR and AMC situation in Africa is available in the Policy Brief and Infographics on Antimicrobial Resistance in Africa. 

ASLM’s Role and Impact in the Fight Against AMR

ASLM has been leading the charge against AMR in Africa through a multi-faceted approach that includes:

1. Enhanced Surveillance and Research: ASLM works with laboratories across Africa to improve the detection and monitoring of AMR. By strengthening laboratory networks and implementing standardized testing protocols, ASLM enables more accurate and timely identification of resistant strains, contributing to better surveillance and data collection.
2. Capacity Building: Recognizing the need for skilled laboratory professionals, ASLM provides training and support to healthcare workers. To date, over 300 professionals have received specialized training in epidemiology and microbiology across 14 countries in African and beyond through its specialized training center, the ASLM Academy. This ensures that professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to detect and manage resistant infections effectively.
3. Policy Advocacy: ASLM collaborates with governments, international organizations, and stakeholders to develop and advocate for policies that support the containment and management of AMR. This includes promoting the responsible use of antibiotics and integrating AMR strategies into national health plans.
4. Raising Awareness: ASLM actively engages with communities and healthcare providers to raise awareness about the dangers of AMR and the importance of responsible antibiotic use. Public education campaigns are essential to changing behaviors and reducing the misuse of antibiotics.

The ASLM team met with the Biomereux executives

Showcasing ASLM’s Work and Advocating for Increased Investment to AMR at the UNGA High-Level Meeting

This high-level meeting on AMR at the UNGA provides a vital platform to showcase ASLM’s work and its impact on the African continent. ASLM will highlight the successes and challenges of implementing AMR initiatives in Africa and advocate for greater international collaboration and investment.

Key Messages at UNGA:

• Urgency of the Crisis: Emphasize the urgent need for global action to address AMR, especially in high-burden regions like Africa.

• Collaborative Efforts: Highlight the importance of partnerships between governments, international organizations, and the private sector in combating AMR.

• Call for Support: Advocate for increased funding and resources to strengthen laboratory systems, enhance surveillance, and implement effective AMR interventions in Africa.

Mr Ndlovu addresses delegates at the Fleming fund meeting

“Antimicrobial Resistance is a silent pandemic that poses a significant threat to global health, especially in Africa,“ said Mr. Nqobile Ndlovu, CEO of ASLM. “Our work at ASLM is critical in building the AMR surveillance infrastructure and capacity needed to fight this threat, and we are honored to bring these efforts to the global stage at the UNGA“

Looking Ahead

ASLM is committed to continuing its work in combating AMR through enhanced surveillance, capacity building, and advocacy. The organization’s presence at the UNGA high-level meeting is an important step in raising awareness and driving global action to address this critical issue.

Discover ASLM’s Partnership with the Fleming Fund Across 14 African Countries

Explore the Fleming Fund Project Booklet to learn about ASLM’s efforts in strengthening laboratory capacity and combating antimicrobial resistance across 14 African countries.

 Click here to read the booklet or scan the QR code to learn more about this impactful partnership.

Visit here to gain insights into the significant milestones achieved in the fight against AMR and how ASLM is contributing to improved health outcomes across the continent.