Strengthening mechanisms to fight against Antimicrobial Resistance in the food and agricultural sector in Sierra Leone
Evidence-based research and guidelines to empower Sierra Leone to address antimicrobial resistance in the poultry sector and beyond.
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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), through its Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, has made significant strides in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Sierra Leone.
A recent pilot study in the poultry sector has generated critical data on antibiotic resistance, equipping farmers and policymakers with tools to make informed decisions and strengthen health systems.
Conducted between August 2023 and March 2024 in five districts—Bombali, Kono, Western Area, Bo, and Kenema—the study assessed antimicrobial susceptibility of Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. using samples from poultry farms. Results revealed high resistance to sulfamethoxazole (89.2 percent for E. coli and 94.2 percent for Salmonella spp.) and strong susceptibility to gentamicin and ceftazidime.
The findings are the basis for Sierra Leone’s participation in global surveillance platforms such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) InFARM and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) ANIMUSE.
“This initiative shows FAO’s commitment to fighting antimicrobial resistance through evidence-based research and capacity building,” said Mr. Saeed A. Bancie, FAO Representative in Sierra Leone. “Empowering farmers and policymakers with knowledge and tools is vital to ensuring sustainable agriculture and protecting human and animal health.”
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Theresa Tenneh Dick, Deputy Minister, echoed this sentiment: ‘This collaboration with FAO represents a significant milestone in our efforts to safeguard public health and enhance food security by addressing the pressing challenge of antimicrobial resistance in agriculture.’”
Enhancing awareness and promoting responsible antimicrobial use
In addition to the pilot study, FAO ECTAD in Sierra Leone supported the development of national guidelines for infection prevention and responsible antimicrobial use in the poultry sector. These guidelines, disseminated through workshops and printed materials, aim to improve biosecurity practices and encourage the judicious use of antibiotics.
FAO plans to expand its efforts to other livestock species, fisheries and environmental sectors to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the AMR burden in Sierra Leone. Such initiatives will guide the formulation of policies and laws to regulate antimicrobial use and strengthen One Health systems in the country.
The achievements in Sierra Leone are made possible through the financial support of the UK Fleming Fund. This collaboration has facilitated the procurement of laboratory equipment, the training of personnel, and the integration of AMR strategies into national One Health platforms, ensuring long-term sustainability and effectiveness.