How misuse of antimicrobial agents is exacerbating the challenges facing Somalia’s public health

Abstract

Background: In contrast to most developed countries, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has continued to be a serious challenge to public health in the majority of resource-limited countries in Africa.

Materials and method: A comprehensive review of all available literature reporting on antimicrobial resistance patterns, antimicrobial drug usage in both human and animals, as well as national AMR regulations in Somalia was undertaken.

Results: The review observed that successful AMR control and surveillance among resource-poor nations are affected by a lack of infrastructural and institutional capacities, poor investment in human and material resources, as well as non-adherence to available policies. The humanitarian crisis affecting Somalia has persisted for too long, leading to loss of lives, productivity and dilapidation of public health infrastructures. Somalia like most countries has adopted the One Health approach in developing their soon-to-be gazetted National Action Plan on AMR, which covers both human health, animal health and the environment. Although there are many other similar policy documents and guidelines regulating the usage and administration of antimicrobials in the country, evidence of the implementation indicates there is still a need for more effort.

Conclusion: AMR constitute a significant public health problem in Somali, and there is urgent need for gazetting and enforcement of the newly developed national policy. In addition, there is also the need for collaboration with the major stakeholders to develop workable solutions to combat the hazards posed by AMR in the country.