(Paynesville, Liberia, April 8, 2025) — Health stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health (MOH), the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), and other key agencies, gathered at the Golden Gate Hotel in Paynesville for a discussion on the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The day-long technical working group focused on the urgent need for collective action to tackle this growing public health crisis. AMR, which occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, poses a serious challenge to global health. It complicates the treatment of infections, increases the risk of disease spread, and results in higher rates of illness and death. The event underlined several key strategies to combat AMR, including raising awareness, strengthening surveillance, improving sanitation and hygiene, and optimizing antimicrobial use in both human and animal health. A central theme throughout the discussions was the importance of a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
In his keynote address, Mr. Bode Ireti Shobayo, Senior Technical Lead at NPHIL, unveiled the risks posed by the misuse of antibiotics, particularly in agriculture. “The misuse of antibiotics, especially in agriculture, is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance,” Shobayo warned. He continued: “We must all understand that antibiotics should only be used when prescribed by a certified medical professional. We must educate the public, especially through platforms like social media, to prevent the misuse of these critical medicines.” Shobayo called for broader awareness campaigns, urging citizens to avoid purchasing antibiotics without prescriptions, saying “We must use antibiotics responsibly. Do not purchase antibiotics unless they are prescribed by a certified medical professional,” he added. “Together, we can mitigate this threat by leveraging every available tool to educate and inform.”
Mr. Advertus N. Mainah, One Health Platform Coordinator at NPHIL, stressed the need for a unified approach across various sectors to address AMR. “AMR is not just a health issue; it’s a multi-sectoral problem. The responsibility falls on all of us—health, agriculture, the environment—to act collectively,” Mainah said. “This gathering is an important opportunity for everyone to learn about the impact of AMR and become ambassadors in spreading the message to their communities.” The event also featured in-depth discussions on the role of surveillance in strengthening the evidence base needed for effective policy and interventions.
As the session concluded, participants were urged to take concrete steps toward addressing AMR, with a focus on sustainable investments in research and development.