Ghana National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Use and Resistance 2017-2021

The Ghana National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Use and Resistance 2017-2021 is a national cross-sectoral plan. Its main objectives are to improve awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance through effective communication, education and training; strengthen knowledge and evidence base through surveillance and research; reduce the incidence of infection through effective sanitation, hygiene and infection prevention measures and good agricultural and biosecurity practices; optimize the use of antimicrobial agents in humans, aquaculture, plant production and in animal health in the ‘one health’ approach; and develop the economic case and create an enabling environment for sustainable investment that takes account of the needs of Ghana, and increase investment in new medicines, diagnostic tools, vaccines and other interventions.
Among others, the Plan also provides to engage professional associations to educate professionals to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials at all levels of practice in all affected sectors (human, animal, plant, environment, etc.); incorporate content on responsible use of antimicrobials into the curriculum of training institutions for professionals in all affected sectors (human, animal, plant, environment etc.); establish a structure for the national surveillance systems for non-human health which includes animal, plant and environment (would also cover a national reference laboratory); rollout implementation: starting with laboratories that would meet requirements in human and animal sectors; undertake wide stakeholder consultation on end-user needs requirements, feasibilities, constrains etc. for the development of a data management system for antimicrobial consumption in human and animal health; develop a national surveillance database, management tools, analytical tools, applications/software for antimicrobial consumption in humans and animal health; advocate and create awareness on healthcare associated infections [to be added training activities of human and animal health professionals]; and conduct regular sensitisation campaign on vaccination of animals; and develop research agenda for AMR and incorporate into research agenda of ministries, departments, and agencies in affected sectors (humans, animals, plants).