Republic of South Africa: Antimicrobial Resistance National Strategy Framework 2018 – 2024

The National Department of Health and Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries have collectively engaged to determine the key interventions that will form the basis for this strategy taking into account the recommendations from the WHO and OIE. The development and implementation of a National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy Framework that complements international efforts is a major step towards containment of the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance in human and animal health. Global partnerships need to be strengthened because the responsibility for reducing resistance is a shared one. This responsibility is not only limited to the health care sector, but calls for collaborative action in all sectors - human, animal and agriculture. The National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy Framework will affect South Africa’s response to this looming threat. We already have the tools and expertise to make a difference, now all we need is to work together toward a better future.