Abstract
Although currently available data indicate that Africa has the lowest usage of antimicrobials in animals in the world (adjusted by animal biomass), data show a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens isolated from animals and animal products. Apart from the lack of solid data on antimicrobial use in many countries in Africa, different hypotheses could explain this situation. Qualitative interviews of farmers show a lack of knowledge and uninformed use of antimicrobials. Considering the development of animal farming to meet an increasing demand for proteins, this deficiency represents a serious public health issue. We advocate for policies that consider the specific challenges faced by family farmers in Africa, to simultaneously improve access to veterinary drugs while strengthening the regulation of their use. We propose a global approach targeting the agri-food system, offering innovative social and technical interventions on antimicrobial usage, adapted to family farmers.
Highlights
Currently available data indicate that Africa has the lowest usage of antimicrobials in animals in the world, data show a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens isolated from animals and animal products
Antimicrobial Resistance in Animals in Africa The literature review by Van Boeckel et al shows that, in poultry, resistance rates to tetracycline reach 70% for Escherichia coli and 80% for Campylobacter in Africa, above the rates observed in Asia or the Americas [2]
The transmission routes of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) from animals to humans and vice versa are insufficiently investigated in Africa, the situation is of public health concern because of the probability that resistance is being transmitted to farmers and consumers through animals and animal food products and through consumption of antimicrobial residues in animal products
Summary
Currently available data indicate that Africa has the lowest usage of antimicrobials in animals in the world (adjusted by animal biomass), data show a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens isolated from animals and animal products. Regardless of whether antimicrobial consumption is underestimated in Africa or not, AMR in animal food products is at a high level.
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