Harare, Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe develops new vaccine for deadly cattle disease
September 08, 2022
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The AMR MPTF supported initiatives in two Southern African countries: Madagascar and Zimbabwe, with a range of activities spanning from knowledge, attitudes and practices studies (KAPS), mapping antimicrobial use (AMU), capacity building, awareness raising, and the promotion of knowledge and innovation in alternative approaches to antimicrobial use. The first phase of Zimbabwe’s AMR MPTF was completed, with activities now transitioning into the second phase. Student leadership in Madagascar has become a flagship activity of the AMR MPTF project in this country, which is regarded highly for fostering a deeper understanding of global AMR challenges and contributing to the development of the next generation of professionals.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) establishes international standards for antimicrobial use in animals, as well as surveillance and stewardship practices. WOAH is currently implementing several MPTF projects across Africa. Utilising country-specific evidence from MPTF initiatives, WOAH advocates on a global scale. The data generated by these country projects contribute to WOAH’s standard-setting processes and inform updates to pertinent guidelines. Additionally, findings from these projects are integrated into policy recommendations that support veterinary legislation and its enforcement. This journey ensures that insights gained from the projects are effectively translated into enforceable veterinary policies, international standards, and sustainable national strategies.
WOAH’s AMR MPTF activities cover a broad range of competencies, from soft skills such as knowledge dissemination, awareness raising, and collaboration, to technical expertise including surveillance, regulation, and vaccine innovation. The framework underpinning WOAH’s AMR awareness and capacity-building initiatives extends beyond isolated campaign events, translating into tangible actions at the national level. These efforts promote sustainable behavioural changes within animal production systems and improved husbandry practices. Furthermore, governments integrate AMR considerations into their National Action Plans (NAPs), veterinary professionals consistently adhere to best practices, and there is increased adoption of vaccination alongside innovative strategies aimed at addressing AMR drivers.
Zimbabwe develops new vaccine for deadly cattle disease
The WOAH’s long-term investment in capacity building has yielded significant results, transforming the regional landscape of knowledge incubation. Through sustained regional capacity development, the WOAH-led Zimbabwe AMR-MPTF project successfully revitalised the production of the Boleni GU79-1.3 theileriosis vaccine. This advancement is crucial in mitigating the broader impacts associated with antimicrobial use for treating theileriosis and reducing dependence on these agents. Additionally, vaccine production aligns with global health objectives aimed at preserving the effectiveness of current antimicrobials and safeguarding public health.
The emergence of antimicrobial resistance is attributed not only to the misuse of drugs but also to the utilisation of veterinary products that are either of inferior quality or contain substandard ingredients. In partnership with its Quadripartite partners, WOAH is mapping falsified veterinary products through field-level infrared spectrometer analysis in Zimbabwe. These efforts expedite mapping processes and guide regulatory frameworks aimed at mitigating the associated global health risks. This initiative strengthens food safety and security, curbs antimicrobial resistance, enhances surveillance, and supports evidence-based regulatory frameworks.
