Seychelles Takes the Lead in Combating Antimicrobial Resistance

In a bid to strengthen its defenses against the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Seychelles is hosting a five-day workshop in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Ministries of Agriculture, Climate Change, and Environment, and Health. The event, which kicked off this week at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Hotel, brings together laboratory technicians from Seychelles and nine other regional countries to enhance their capacity to detect and manage AMR.

The workshop is part of the IAEA’s RAF5089 project, which aims to improve the capacity of national veterinary laboratories to combat AMR. According to Sheriffa Joubert from the Biosecurity Agency in Seychelles, the issue of AMR is a pressing concern, with research showing that an increasing number of people and animals are becoming resistant to antibiotics. "It’s not only a human health issue, but also affects animal health and the safety of our food," she emphasized.

The workshop will focus on key areas such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing, molecular characterization of resistant bacteria, and the latest control strategies, all aligned with global guidelines. Participants will engage in technical sessions and hands-on training, designed to strengthen regional and national efforts to combat AMR.

In his opening address, Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change, and Environment, Flavien Joubert, highlighted the critical importance of addressing AMR. "The rise of resistant bacteria has placed an immense burden on global health systems, threatening to reverse decades of medical progress," he said. "This workshop comes at a pivotal time in global health, and I am proud that Seychelles is at the forefront of hosting such an event."

The Minister emphasized the need for collaborative and innovative approaches to manage and combat AMR, and expressed his confidence that the workshop will provide participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to deepen their understanding of AMR detection, control strategies, and laboratory practices.

As the world grapples with the growing threat of AMR, Seychelles’ initiative is a significant step towards strengthening regional and national capacities to combat this global health threat. The workshop is expected to conclude on Friday, with participants equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the fight against AMR.