Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health issue, and the First Lady of the Maldives, Sajidha Mohamed, has emphasized the need for collective action to address it. At the recent launch of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP AMR) 2024–2029, she called for a unified effort to protect public health, food safety, and the environment from the growing threat of resistant bacteria.
A Unified Approach to Combat AMR
First Lady Sajidha highlighted the comprehensive nature of the National Action Plan, which adopts a “One Health” approach to AMR. This approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. It emphasizes that solutions to combat AMR must involve collaboration across various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.
“AMR does not respect borders, and neither should our efforts to fight it,” said First Lady Sajidha. By combining resources and expertise from different areas, the country can effectively address this critical issue that affects not only human health but also the stability of food systems and economic resilience.
Addressing the Public Health Threat
AMR is a serious concern for public health worldwide. Resistant bacteria are becoming more difficult to treat with standard antibiotics, posing a risk to the effectiveness of medical treatments. Misuse of antimicrobials in agriculture, particularly in farming and aquaculture, plays a significant role in accelerating the development of resistant bacteria.
“Misusing antibiotics in agriculture can introduce resistant pathogens into the food supply, creating a direct threat to both public health and livelihoods,” said First Lady Sajidha. By limiting the use of antibiotics in these industries, the risk of spreading resistant bacteria can be significantly reduced.
The Economic Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance
The economic consequences of AMR are profound. If left unchecked, AMR can result in prolonged illnesses, increased healthcare costs, and reduced productivity. First Lady Sajidha called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, stressing the importance of pooling resources and sharing knowledge to tackle AMR more effectively.
“Addressing AMR is not just a health issue; it’s an economic necessity,” she stated. Governments, healthcare professionals, and the private sector must come together to ensure that solutions are both sustainable and economically viable.
National Action Plan 2024–2029
The newly launched NAP AMR 2024–2029 builds on previous efforts and aligns with the World Health Organization’s Global Action Plan. The five-year strategy aims to strengthen governance, improve regulations, and enhance accountability. One of the primary goals is to close gaps in addressing AMR, ensuring that the nation’s healthcare systems, food safety protocols, and environmental management efforts are better equipped to handle the challenge.
First Lady Sajidha emphasized that the implementation of the National Action Plan will be vital in safeguarding public health, protecting food systems, and promoting sustainable practices across all sectors.
In closing, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed called on every sector of society to contribute to the fight against AMR. Whether in healthcare, agriculture, or environmental management, each sector has a role to play. By working together, the Maldives can lead the way in combating AMR, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
“Only through collective action can we address this challenge effectively,” she said, urging all sectors to unite for a healthier, more resilient nation. The success of this effort will require collaboration, innovation, and commitment from all corners of society.
