Media Practitioners equipped to lead public awareness on antimicrobial resistance

Media practitioners from the Bono, Ahafo, and Bono East Regions have been trained to lead public awareness on the dangers of antibiotic misuse in agriculture. 

The two-day training in Sunyani, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Veterinary Department, aimed to equip journalists with knowledge on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Antimicrobial Use (AMU).

Mr Favid Youngs, FAO Officer in Ghana emphasised the media’s critical role in disseminating accurate information to curb AMR, a growing global threat.

The training focused on AMR awareness, responsible antibiotic use, one health approach, and farmer field schools.

He said the FAO has also developed the Assessment Tool for Laboratories and AMR Surveillance Systems (FAO-ATLASS) to support countries in assessing and improving their AMR surveillance systems.

He urged the media to take the lead in the fight in promoting responsible antibiotic use in agriculture and reducing the risks of AMR.

The media practitioners pledged to educate the public through their platforms, incorporating AMR topics into radio discussions and news reports.

Benjamin Asomah, GNA