Drug resistance awareness crusader enters parliament

By Guardian Correspondent , The Guardian
Published at 10:38 AM Nov 04 2024
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) illustration
Photo: File
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) illustration

IN a spirited effort to combat the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), Kido, ambassador for the USAID-funded ‘Holela Holela Itakukosti’ (Reckless is costly) campaign, took centre stage during a special awareness visit to the National Assembly.

The visit on Friday aimed to engage lawmakers in the fight against AMR, a global health challenge that has increasingly jeopardized public health, agriculture and the economy.

Kido, a respected figure in the fight against AMR, addressed members of Parliament with passion and clarity, shedding light on the devastating consequences of unchecked antimicrobial use and misuse. He said: “Without immediate action, rising resistance to antibiotics could undo decades of medical progress and lead to untreatable infections, putting millions of lives at risk.”

 As part of his visit, Kido led an interactive session where parliamentarians discussed the need for more robust policies and greater public awareness of responsible antibiotic use.

The ambassador shared real-life stories of how AMR impacts communities nationwide, emphasizing the necessity for a multisectoral approach involving healthcare professionals, farmers and the public. The visit marked a significant advancement for the campaign.

Waziri Nyoni, Chief of Party for the Breakthrough ACTION project, praised Kido’s role: “Kido’s efforts as campaign ambassador have been transformative. His work connects policymakers with the realities of AMR’s impact across Tanzanian communities, underscoring the need for a robust, unified response.”

Kido spearheads the campaign, which seeks to raise awareness at all levels, from grassroots communities to high-level decision-makers. With the visit to the National Assembly, Kido and the campaign made a significant stride in advocating for more decisive legislative action and budget allocation toward AMR mitigation efforts.

Kido’s role as an ambassador is instrumental in ensuring that the AMR crisis remains a top priority on the national health agenda by bridging the gap between policymakers and public health experts.

As the session concluded, parliamentarians committed to revisiting current policies on antibiotic use and exploring innovative solutions to tackle AMR more effectively. Kido’s leadership and advocacy have invigorated the campaign, making the visit a pivotal moment in the national fight against AMR.