By Catherine Murombedzi
HEALTH CORRESPONDENT
The abstract by theĀ authors(listed below) discusses antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the beef value chain in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It highlights AMR impact on human, animal, and public health, challenges and lessons learned in addressing this issue.
AMR poses a significant threat to human, animal, and public health worldwide, and Africa’s beef industry is no exception.
The Complex Web of AMR in Africa’s Beef Industry
The review found that AMR in SSA’s beef value chain is driven by a complex array of factors, including the overuse and misuse of antimicrobials, suboptimal production practices, informal market structures, and poor environmental management. These conditions facilitate the emergence and spread of resistant pathogens, compromising food safety and public health.
The Role of Antimicrobial Use and Misuse
The misuse of antimicrobials is a significant contributor to AMR in Africa’s beef industry. Farmers often use antibiotics as growth promoters or preventative treatments, even without disease. This practice is particularly prevalent in smallholder farming systems, where access to veterinary services is limited.
The Impact of Informal Markets and Poor Environmental Management
Informal markets and poor environmental management also play a significant role in the spread of AMR in Africa’s beef industry. The lack of regulatory oversight and standardization in informal markets increases the risk of contamination with resistant pathogens. Similarly, poor environmental management, such as the contamination of soil, water, and feed with antimicrobial residues, contributes to the persistence and spread of resistant pathogens.
The Need for a One Health Approach
The review highlights the need for a One Health approach to address the interconnected drivers of AMR in Africa’s beef industry. This approach requires the integration of human, animal, and environmental health strategies to address the complex web of factors contributing to AMR.
Recommendations for Action
The review provides several recommendations for action, including:
ā Strengthening regulatory frameworks to enforce more stringent regulations on antimicrobial use
ā Enhancing farmer and consumer knowledge of AMR through education programme
ā Improving access to veterinary care and training for farmers and veterinarians
ā Integrating human, animal, and environmental health strategies to address the interconnected drivers of AMR
ā Harmonizing regulations and promoting data sharing across countries to address the cross-border spread of AMR
Conclusion
The growing threat of AMR in Africa’s beef industry requires urgent attention. The complex web of factors contributing to AMR demands a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health strategies. By strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing knowledge, improving access to veterinary care, and integrating health strategies, Africa can mitigate the impact of AMR on food safety, public health, and the sustainability of its beef industry
_Research study by Godfrey Musuka, Jairus Machakwa, Oscar Mano, Patrick Gad Iradukunda, Pierre Gashema, Enos Moyo, Amon Nsengimana, Shepherd Manhokwe, Tapiwa Dhliwayo, and Tafadzwa Dzinamarira._
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