The Secretary Administration of the State Department for Livestock Development, Joshua Chepchieng today presided over the official launch of the World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) at Hotel Sarova Panafric in Nairobi.
Standing in for PS Jonathan Mueke, Chepchieng emphasized the global significance of the gathering, which brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to addressing one of the most pressing challenges to global health – Antimicrobial Resistance.
The Livestock Sector, crucial for ensuring food security and facilitating trade across diverse economies, is under the shadow of AMR, which imperils its sustainable growth.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Chepchieng underscored that antimicrobials play a dual role in protecting animal health and contributing to the overarching goal of mitigating AMR.
The launch marks a concerted effort to foster awareness, collaboration, and concrete actions to safeguard not only the livestock industry but also the broader health and economic interests of nations.
The week-long event will see discussions, workshops, and strategic planning to address the multifaceted challenges posed by Antimicrobial Resistance.
“The gathering is a testament committed to address the most significant global health challenges of our time: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
The AMR threatens the sustainable growth of the Livestock Sector in ensuring food security and trade across different economies. The antimicrobials therefore will not only protect animal health but also contribute to overarching goal of AMR mitigation,” the State Department wrote.