Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini has issued a clear national call to action as Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini addressed the country during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2025.
With antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rising sharply, reaching 79% among common pathogens in the human health sector, the Prime Minister outlined bold steps the Kingdom is taking to safeguard public health, food security, and the nation’s future.
A Growing Global and Local Threat
Across the world, bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to the medicines designed to treat them. In 2019 alone, AMR was associated with nearly five million deaths globally. For Eswatini, the 2024 national surveillance data revealed an alarming rise: a 5% increase in antibiotic resistance compared to 2023. Once easily treatable infections are now becoming more difficult, more expensive, and in some cases, impossible to cure.
Eswatini’s Bold Response
Despite the rising threat, Eswatini is responding with determination and unity. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the global goal of reducing AMR-related deaths by 10% and ensuring that at least 70% of antibiotics used in human health fall under the WHO “Access” category by 2030.
Under the National AMR Containment Strategic Plan, Eswatini is implementing a coordinated One Health approach, bringing together the Ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Natural Resources. This multi-sector collaboration focuses on:
– Strengthening AMR surveillance systems
– Promoting responsible antibiotic use in humans, animals, and the environment
– Translating scientific data into policy action
– Enhancing public awareness and education
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week 2025
From 18 to 24 November 2025, Eswatini joins the global community in commemorating World Antimicrobial Awareness Week under the theme: “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.”
A United Kingdom Moving Forward
The national address closed with a message of hope, faith, and resilience. Eswatini stands united in purpose, committed to protecting its people and building a healthier future. With strengthened systems and collective action, the Kingdom is taking firm steps to ensure that antimicrobial resistance does not define the future of its health care or its development.
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