Lusaka, June 10, 2025, ZANIS—The Ministry of Health has sounded the alarm over the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), warning that it poses a serious risk to food security, public health, and livelihoods in Zambia. Speaking during a pre-conference meeting on AMR with parliamentarians, Health Minister Elijah Muchima, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Kennedy Lishimpi, said AMR is a pressing health concern that demands a coordinated, multi-sectoral response. “In Africa, over 255,000 infection-related deaths in 2019 were attributed to AMR. If current trends persist, drug-resistant infections could cost the global economy up to 100 trillion US dollars and result in 10 million deaths annually by 2050,” said Dr. Muchima.
He emphasized the need to strengthen surveillance systems, improve laboratory capacity, promote antimicrobial stewardship, and enhance collaboration between sectors through the One Health framework. Representing the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Assistant Director of Veterinary Services, Funsya Goma, echoed the concern, stating that AMR is not only a human health issue but also a growing threat in animal and plant health sectors. “AMR has direct implications for food security, food safety, international trade, and environmental health. The impact is further worsened by climate change, which already threatens food production,” Dr. Goma said.
The Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) Director Nyambe Sinyangwe also highlighted the role of lawmakers in confronting the AMR crisis. Dr. Sinyangwe stressed that AMR is not just a medical issue, but a social, economic, and political challenge that requires strong leadership and legislative commitment. “Your influence is pivotal in ensuring a sustainable and inclusive AMR response through budget allocation, policy oversight, and advocacy,” said Dr. Sinyangwe. The meeting brought together parliamentarians and key stakeholders to explore solutions to the growing AMR threat. Participants agreed on the urgent need for collaborative action and national-level policy support to prevent AMR from undermining public health and food systems.
