Final National Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in Yemen approved by MOPHP.

This National Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance in Yemen is a comprehensive strategy designed to safeguard the population from infectious diseases and the threats of AMR. It aims to ensure the ongoing use of effective, safe, and quality drugs, administered responsibly to those in need. The plan also emphasizes continuous surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and active participation in regional and global research efforts. Aligned with the Global Action Plan, the objectives of this NAP are tailored to meet national needs and priorities. It adopts a One Health approach, engaging all sectors, particularly human health, animal health, and the environment, to collectively reduce the emergence and impact of AMR in Yemen. The document is structured to include a Strategic Plan that outlines objectives and priorities, an Operational Plan with budgetary considerations, and a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan encompassing all axes and activities. This comprehensive approach ensures a coordinated and effective response to the multifaceted challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance in Yemen.
The NAP emphasizes the need for a well-supported and accountable national governance mechanism, detailing the establishment of a National Steering Committee (NSC), including representatives from various sectors, and an Antimicrobial Coordination Committee (ACC), responsible for overseeing and coordinating AMR-related activities across sectors. It emphasizes political support, authority to act, and dedicated funds for effective implementation. The document also highlights the importance of a National AMR Focal Point to coordinate activities in the health sector and a Technical Working Group (TWG) for specific tasks. The Surveillance Unit (ASU) is introduced to oversee the development and functioning of the national AMR surveillance system. Its responsibilities include defining surveillance objectives, facilitating cross-sector linkages, developing standards and protocols, and ensuring data management and reporting to the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS). The overall goal is to create a collaborative and comprehensive national approach to combat AMR, ensuring effective surveillance, data management, and coordination among various stakeholders.
The Strategic Objectives outlined by the NAP along the five axis (awareness, surveillance, infection prevention and control (IPC), antibiotic use, and budget planning and fund attraction) are as follows (i) develop awareness and understanding of antimicrobial resistance through effective communication, education, behavior changes, and training; (ii) strengthen the knowledge evidence base through surveillance and Research; (iii) reduce the incidence of infection through effective sanitation, hygiene and prevention measures; (iv) optimize the use of antimicrobial medicines in human and animal health; (v) develop the economic case for sustainable investment that takes account of the needs of all countries, and increase investment in new medicines, diagnostic tools, vaccines and other interventions.