Harare, Zimbabwe – In a display of collaboration and forward-thinking, Zimbabwe on 20 May 2025 concluded a consolidation and lessons learned workshop on combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) using the One Health approach.

The event, which brought together key stakeholders from the government, international organizations, and various sectors, marked the close of Phase I of the AMR Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF)initiative and laid the groundwork for an ambitious Phase II.

The workshop served as a platform to highlight achievements, draw insights from implementation experiences, and chart a course for sustained progress in the fight against AMR, a growing global threat that could devastate economies and claim millions of lives if left unchecked.

Collaboration: The cornerstone of success

Dr. Desta A Tiruneh, WHO Representative to Zimbabwe, underscored the transformative power of collaboration, highlighting the partnership between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), World Health Organisation (WHO), WOAH, and UNEP. "These achievements are not just milestones," he stated. "They are a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together, across sectors, across disciplines, and across borders."

Among the key achievements celebrated in the human health sector was the review of the Infection Prevention and Control Policy and Strategy-documents which were concurrently launched at the closure workshop, the piloting of hospital-acquired infection surveillance in central hospitals, and support for the evaluation of the Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine.

Empowering farmers, protecting livestock

FAO’s contribution to the project focused on supporting practical interventions in the livestock sector. Berhanu Bedane, the FAO Livestock Development Officer for Southern Africa, emphasized the success of the Farmer Field School model in enhancing husbandry practices within the broiler value chain across eight districts in Zimbabwe. This initiative demonstrably reduced antimicrobial use by enhancing biosecurity and disease prevention at the community level.

Furthermore, FAO collaborated with the Directorate of Veterinary Services and WOAH to strengthen local vaccine production, supporting key milestones for the resumption of Theileriosis vaccine production, a critical step in combating tick-borne diseases that threaten livestock health and farmer livelihoods.

Dechassa Mekonta, the AMR officer for Southern Africa from WOAH also highlighted how the project enhanced capacity of the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe to detect substandard and falsified medicines using handheld devices. This is crucial in safeguarding public health by ensuring that only safe and effective medicines are circulated within the country’s supply chain.

Laying the foundation for a healthier future

The Chief Director of Veterinary Services, in his closing remarks, emphasized the importance of the One Health approach, bridging human, animal, and environmental health. He highlighted the momentum built through this multisectoral collaboration and urged all stakeholders to maintain the shared commitment, adaptability, and innovation that have defined Phase I as the country prepares for an even more impactful Phase II.

The workshop also facilitated insightful discussions on the importance of transparent governance structures, streamlined monitoring and evaluation tools, investment in local innovations, and the critical role of community engagement and government ownership in ensuring sustainability.

Towards a brighter tomorrow: Phase II and beyond

The message from the workshop was one of optimism and determination. Stakeholders recognized the urgent need for sustained efforts to combat AMR, with projections indicating potentially devastating economic and human costs if the threat is not addressed effectively.

As Zimbabwe transitions to Phase II of its AMR programming, the lessons learned, and collaborative spirit fostered during Phase I will serve as a strong foundation for even more ambitious goals. The focus will remain on strengthening institutions, deepening engagement at all levels, and ensuring a healthier future for all Zimbabweans.

A call to action

The workshop concluded with a resounding call to action, urging governments, healthcare providers, agricultural sector players, and international partners to carry forward the spirit of lesson learning and collaboration by investing in stronger surveillance systems, supporting local innovation, and fostering government ownership. “Only through bold and sustained efforts can Zimbabwe, and the world, effectively combat the threat of AMR and ensure a healthier, more prosperous future,” concluded Berhanu Bedane. 

Originally published on fao.org