The training brought together representatives from Uganda’s Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Environment, along with facilitators, experts, and key stakeholders across the One Health spectrum. Funded by the UK’s Fleming Fund and managed by Mott MacDonald, the initiative underscores the power of collaboration in tackling global health challenges.
A Milestone in Uganda’s AMR Journey
Speaking during the opening session, Dr. Talkmore Maruta, Director of Programs at ASLM, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to combating AMR through strengthened laboratory systems and workforce capacity. He also acknowledged the leadership of His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda, who was recently recognized as ASLM’s Ambassador for Diagnostics in Africa for his contributions to health security in Uganda and beyond.
The Fleming Fund-supported Mapping Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Use Partnership (MAAP) Phase 1 report identified critical gaps in bacteriology testing, automated pathogen identification, and monitoring of antibiotic-resistant pathogens across Africa. This training is designed to address these gaps by equipping participants with tailored strategies and practical skills.
Empowering Uganda to Tackle AMR
The training focuses on strengthening Uganda’s capacity to develop and implement AMR, AMC, and AMU surveillance systems. Participants will gain:
- A comprehensive understanding of the Continental AMR, AMC, and AMU Surveillance Guidance and its application in Uganda.
- The ability to train others at national and regional levels, ensuring sustainable knowledge transfer.
- Skills in data management, including the use of WHONET and other analytical and data visualization tools.
- Expertise in leadership, effective surveillance site selection, quality management systems (QMS), and data-driven decision-making.
- Opportunities to collaborate and share innovative, home-grown solutions for improving AMR surveillance.
This initiative builds on ASLM’s previous achievements, including the accreditation of microbiology laboratories, digitization of AMR data, and workforce development under its Qualifying Workforce for AMR Surveillance (QWARS) program.
Towards Sustainable Health Systems
This training aligns with ASLM’s broader efforts to combat AMR, as highlighted during its participation in the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2024. At UNGA, ASLM presented its African Continent Landmark Report on AMR, calling for urgent action to address AMR drivers, improve evidence generation and reporting, and mobilize resources through a One Health approach.
By the end of the training, participants are expected to play a leading role in scaling up AMR surveillance efforts in Uganda, contributing to the development of evidence-based policies and interventions that safeguard public health.
Strengthening Regional Collaboration
The training is integrated with ASLM’s regional initiatives, including MAAP Phase 2, QWARS, EQuAfrica, and TADE, ensuring sustainable progress in AMR surveillance across Africa.
“This training is not just about addressing an immediate threat—it’s about securing a healthier, safer future for Uganda, Africa, and the world. By working together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and build sustainable solutions,” Dr. Maruta concluded.