National Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance PAN 2023-2025.

The National Action Plan of São Tomé and Príncipe aims to establish a comprehensive strategy to detect, prevent, and reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health threat. The plan adopts the One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health sectors to address the multifactorial nature of AMR. It aligns with the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan and emphasizes coordinated, multisectoral efforts to mitigate the risks posed by inappropriate antimicrobial use and poor infection control practices. The first strategic objective focuses on raising awareness and understanding of AMR through effective communication, education, and training. This includes public campaigns, integration of AMR topics into academic curricula, and capacity-building for professionals across health, veterinary, and environmental sectors. By fostering knowledge and behavioral change, the plan seeks to reduce misuse of antimicrobials and promote responsible practices among healthcare providers and the general population.
The second and third objectives aim to reduce infection incidence and optimize antimicrobial use. Measures include improving hygiene and sanitation, implementing infection prevention programs in healthcare facilities, and promoting best practices in agriculture and animal health. Additionally, the plan calls for strengthening regulatory frameworks to control antimicrobial distribution and use, ensuring compliance with protocols, and enhancing monitoring systems to prevent indiscriminate sales and misuse. Finally, the plan prioritizes strengthening surveillance, research, and laboratory capacity to generate reliable data on AMR trends and inform policy decisions. It proposes establishing integrated monitoring systems, conducting scientific studies, and investing in laboratory infrastructure and training. These efforts are supported by international partnerships and sustainable financing mechanisms to ensure long-term impact. Collectively, these objectives aim to safeguard public health, protect ecosystems, and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by curbing the spread of antimicrobial resistance.