An urgent call to combat antimicrobial resistance in Sub-Saharan Africa through integrated and innovative solutions

The commentary “An urgent call to combat antimicrobial resistance in Sub-Saharan Africa through integrated and innovative solutions” highlights the rapidly escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Sub-Saharan Africa, where weak health systems, limited diagnostics, poor surveillance, and unregulated antibiotic use threaten to undermine infection treatment and public health progress. The author stresses that AMR in the region is driven by human, animal, and environmental factors and thus requires a coordinated One Health response involving cross-sectoral collaboration. Strengthening laboratory capacity, regulatory frameworks, and access to quality antimicrobials is essential, as is promoting responsible antibiotic use through stewardship and education. The commentary urges policymakers, researchers, and international partners to leverage data, innovation, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to improve AMR detection, monitoring, and response. Without urgent, integrated, and well-funded action, the article warns, AMR could become one of the most severe health and development challenges facing the continent.