Namibia tackles antimicrobial resistance

Overuse and misuse of antibiotics have dramatically contributed to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistant organisms. These organisms pose an extraordinary threat to human and animal health and welfare, and even global ecosystems. Increased antibiotics use in livestock production has been identified as part of the problem and risks jeopardising Namibia’s sought-after meat export status.

Antimicrobial medicines, used particularly for the control and treatment of infections, have positively affected both human and animal health sectors. However, excessive and inappropriate use has led to resistant bacteria that do not respond to antibiotic treatment. As a result stakeholders – including Namibia’s ministry of agriculture and its directorate of veterinary services (DVS), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) – have called for local support in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

A workshop – attended by local retailers such as Agra and Swavet, DVS veterinarians, the University of Namibia (Unam) as well as private practitioners and farmers – was hosted in Windhoek earlier this year. The aim was to improve AMR awareness and come up with innovative ways to survey and promote the responsible use of antibiotics.

The OIE deems the efficiency of antimicrobial agents, as well as their availability for both human and veterinary use, as essential. The agriculture ministry shares this sentiment and has encouraged AMR awareness in Namibia’s agricultural industry. “AMR poses a threat to disease control throughout the world. We are already witnessing increasing health challenges that transcend borders. We need to address the challenge in a co-ordinated manner with proper understanding and commitment from all stakeholders to safeguard the environment,” said Percy Misika, the ministry’s executive director.

The ministry’s position is furthermore that stakeholders should recognise that the prevention and control of infections in humans and animals are key in tackling AMR. “DVS and the ministry will not be able to fight this challenge alone. We need the assistance of stakeholders and roleplayers, because the future of humanity could rest on this battle.”

An antimicrobial resistance (AMR) situation analysis conducted in Namibia in April 2017 found resistance is largely driven by the high volume of antibiotics used. A growing demand for meat was deemed a major contributor to increased antibiotics use in livestock production.

After the completion of the situational analysis, the country developed an AMR national action plan (NAAP) in May of that year. NAAP aligns with the FAO country programme framework (CPF) for the period 2019 to 2023. CPF is a document that outlines priorities for collaboration between FAO and the Namibian government. Due to resource issues and competing priorities, the implementation of this action plan has faced challenges.

Dr Anselm Voigts subsequently urged that responsible and prudent use of antimicrobials be assisted and guided by all veterinarians to ensure they are used only when clinically necessary, at the correct dosage and for the duration of treatment prescribed. “The drug expiry date, withdrawal period and storage instructions must be strictly adhered to and livestock owners must keep adequate records, as prescribed by (the Meat Board of Namibia’s) FAN Meat regulations.”

“It is the livestock owner’s responsibility to maintain optimal animal health and animal welfare protocols, ensure good animal husbandry and on-farm biosecurity, basic hygiene precautions and good vaccination protocols to minimise the need for antimicrobial use in food-producing animals,” he added.

FAO representative to Namibia Farayi Zimudzi labelled the workshop a milestone in the fight against AMR. “I wish to encourage everyone to join forces in supporting the implementation of NAAP, especially considering that the country is heavily dependent on the agriculture sector and the welfare of its livestock.”

She added that the misuse of antimicrobial products places everyone at great risk. “We need to take ownership and responsibility today. There is no time to wait.” Farayi pointed out that the FAO continues to pledge financial and technical support in curbing the spread of AMR.

Concerns voiced
During the workshop veterinarians voiced concerns about over-the-counter availability of antibiotics to farmers and animal lovers. Supply without prescription means that AMR cannot be effectively combated in Namibia. Appropriate action has to be taken or it could affect the country’s sought-after meat export status. Although no names were given, some pharmacies were alleged culprits.

Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) medical microbiologist Dr Munyaradzi Mukesi said the biggest challenge for Namibia in its fight against AMR was incorrect and irrational use of antibiotics largely as a result of over-the-counter supply.

Other challenges he highlighted included insufficient monitoring systems, poor prevention of infections and control strategies, insufficient vaccine coverage, inadequate research and development as well as poor sanitation standards.