Strategies and challenges in containing antimicrobial resistance in East Africa: a focus on laboratory-based surveillance

A new study of the East African Community (EAC) region finds that while all Partner States have developed national antimicrobial-resistance (AMR) action plans and surveillance programs, implementation varies widely—ranging from strong progress in countries like Kenya and Tanzania to very early stages in Burundi and South Sudan. Key challenges include limited laboratory testing capacity, low representativeness of data, lack of integration across human/animal/environment sectors, staff shortages, unstable funding, and weak enforcement of antibiotic-use regulations. The authors emphasise that regional collaboration, bolstered laboratory networks, and a coordinated One Health strategy are essential for building sustainable AMR containment in the region.