A new milestone in AMR mitigation
In an important development for addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Sub-Saharan Africa, Malawi has officially joined the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS) as a Mission Partner. This partnership represents a significant step forward as Malawi enhances its efforts to manage the growing challenge of resistant infections.
“For Malawi, joining ICARS as a Mission Partner represents our commitment to addressing antimicrobial resistance. We recognise the urgency of strengthening antimicrobial stewardship across our healthcare system and look forward to collaborating on innovative solutions that will safeguard the health of our citizens. This partnership is a significant step forward in protecting future generations from the devastating consequences of resistant infections.”
— Dr Collins Mitambo, Ministry of Health, Malawi
Current challenges in Malawi
AMR presents a critical issue worldwide, with Sub-Saharan Africa, including Malawi, experiencing particularly high rates of resistance. The inappropriate use of antibiotics, coupled with a heavy burden of infectious diseases such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bloodstream infections (BSIs), has led to a notable increase in resistance. Research highlights a clear connection between antibiotic use and rising resistance, underscoring the need for effective antimicrobial stewardship.
Progress in Antimicrobial Stewardship
Malawi has made progress in its approach to AMR by launching an Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) Programme. Though still in its early stages, the programme has established national guidelines and formed oversight committees in several facilities, including tertiary and district hospitals. These committees are becoming fully operational and require ongoing support from the AMR National Coordinating Committee (AMRNCC). Current evaluations show that a limited number of antibiotic prescriptions are supported by microbiological evidence, indicating a need for further development.
Partnership with ICARS
The partnership with ICARS will focus on a demonstration project to improve the management of UTIs and BSIs in Malawi. This project will evaluate current prescription practices, strengthen formal AMS programmes in six selected facilities, and assess the impact of these interventions. The findings will be crucial for informing healthcare stakeholders and guiding the development of AMS guidelines to effectively manage AMR.
“The partnership between Malawi and ICARS marks a pivotal moment in our collective effort to address antimicrobial resistance in Sub-Saharan Africa. By combining our resources and expertise, we can implement context-specific, evidence-based solutions to improve antibiotic use and patient outcomes. Together, we aim to build a sustainable model that not only benefits Malawi but can serve as a blueprint for other countries facing similar challenges.”
— Dr Sujith J Chandy, Executive Director of ICARS
ICARS looks forward to working with Malawi to enhance patient safety, optimise antibiotic use, and contribute to the global understanding of AMR mitigation.
