derick.khumalo
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
[email protected]
ZIMBABWE has intensified efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with the launch of an International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS)-funded project targeting environmental sources of the growing global public health threat.
The project, launched this week at a Harare hotel and hosted by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), brings together Government ministries, development partners and key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration in addressing antimicrobial resistance through improved environmental management.
Speaking during the launch, EMA Director-General Mr Aaron Chigona reaffirmed the agency’s mandate to regulate, monitor and promote sustainable environmental management across the country.
“Zimbabwe remained committed to reducing antimicrobial resistance in the environment through strengthened environmental governance and sustainable management practices,” said Mr Chigona.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Mr Simon Masanga, said the initiative aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which places environmental sustainability at the centre of national development.
He said while agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth, increased production should not come at the expense of environmental protection.
Mr Masanga added that the project reflects Zimbabwe’s commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy through research, innovation and strategic partnerships.
The initiative, titled “Strengthening Wastewater Management to Reduce Environmental Pollution by Antibiotic Resistant Microbes (ARMs), Antibiotic Resistant Genes (ARGs) and Antibiotic Residues in Wastewater from Poultry Abattoirs in Zimbabwe,” seeks to reduce the environmental dimensions of antimicrobial resistance by improving wastewater management systems in the poultry processing sector.
The project is expected to generate scientific evidence to inform policy development, strengthen environmental stewardship and reduce the release of antibiotic-resistant microbes, resistance genes and antibiotic residues into the environment.
Stakeholders at the launch underscored the importance of adopting a One Health approach, which recognises the close link between human, animal and environmental health in tackling antimicrobial resistance.
Antimicrobial resistance is increasingly recognised as one of the world’s most significant public health challenges. Experts warn that the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human medicine, livestock production and agriculture accelerate the emergence and spread of drug-resistant microorganisms, undermining the effectiveness of life-saving medicines.
The new project is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s response to antimicrobial resistance by promoting sustainable wastewater management in poultry abattoirs while safeguarding both environmental and public health.
