National Action Plan on Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance 2017–2022.

This National Action Plan (NAP) on Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) 2017–2022 is a nationwide multi-sectoral policy document. This is the first NAP on the Prevention and Containment of in Kenya. It has been developed based on the National Policy on Prevention and Containment of AMR and the recommendations of the situation analysis on AMR conducted in 2011 and updated in 2016. The goal of this National Action Plan is to ensure, for as long as possible, continuity of successful treatment and prevention of infectious diseases with effective and safe medicines that are quality-assured, used in a responsible way, and accessible to all who need them.
A country situation analysis concluded in March 2016, focusing on the human health, animal health, fisheries and agriculture sectors, indicated that Kenya is already experiencing high levels of antibiotic resistance. Having recognized the looming crisis, the Government has prioritized the prevention and containment of AMR, through a ‘One Health’ platform that embraces interdisciplinary collaborations and communications in all aspects of health care for humans, animals and the environment. The NAP aims to provide a coherent policy framework and priority actions to contain the emergence and spread of AMR, through the following key strategic objectives: to improve awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance; to strengthen knowledge through surveillance and research; to reduce the incidence of infection; to optimize the use of antimicrobial agents; and to ensure sustainable investment in countering antimicrobial resistance. To achieve he objectives, priority measures over the next five years (2017–2022) are developed, including: Promote Public Awareness, Knowledge and Understanding of AMR and emphasize adoption of good agricultural practices ; Promote education and training on AMR of professionals involved in related fields; Develop a national AMR surveillance system; Standardize methods of laboratory testing; Promote research; Implement & strengthen hygiene, & food safety measures in food value chains and the environment; Include hygiene & IPC as core (mandatory) components of training & education for veterinary professionals and in their CPD and accreditation/ registration; Facilitate HACCP for food processing and the distribution process; Facilitate vaccination as a way of reducing animal infections; Facilitate animal and crop identification and traceability; Facilitate organic farming; etc.
In terms of governance, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries are leading the Prevention and Containment of Antimicrobial Resistance Initiative, through the National Antimicrobial Stewardship Advisory Committee (NASAC), coordinating the efforts of the MOH, MALF, research, academia, civil society and other stakeholders. NASIC will be governed through a Steering Committee (SC) and a Technical Committee (TC). The Action Plan further outlines the key AMR roles and responsibilities, and indices to evaluate the actions thereof.