Tanzania reduces deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance by 10 percent

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government has fast-tracked the implementation of the Second National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP AMR 2023–2028), which aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Action Plan, and is coordinated through the National Multisectoral Coordination Committee.

Speaking on the implementation of the plan, the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Grace Magembe, said Tanzania is also implementing the 2024 United Nations General Assembly Political Declaration by increasing domestic financing for the health sector. She noted that this effort has contributed to a 10 percent reduction in deaths associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Dr. Magembe explained that these efforts go hand in hand with strengthening laboratory capacity and disease surveillance systems, improving infection prevention and control in healthcare facilities, expanding vaccination coverage, improving access to clean water and sanitation services, and raising community awareness about the challenge of AMR.

She further emphasized that the fight against substandard and falsified medical products remains a government priority, noting that such products compromise treatment outcomes and accelerate the development of antimicrobial resistance, posing serious health and economic consequences.

In addition, Dr. Magembe said the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) continues to strengthen regulatory systems through pre-market product evaluation, post-marketing surveillance, regular inspections, the use of rapid alert systems, and the implementation of public awareness campaigns.

She added that in addressing the challenges of AMR and counterfeit health products, Tanzania is focusing on promoting investment in local pharmaceutical manufacturing as one of the strategies to curb the circulation of fake products. Furthermore, the government has underscored the importance of the WHO’s leadership in the governance and harmonization of data systems to ensure data quality, system interoperability, and informed decision-making aimed at safeguarding the health of Tanzanians.