Overview of antimicrobial resistance mitigation efforts in Benin 2024.

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global public health threat that undermines sustainable development. In Benin, high AMR rates to common antibiotics, including last-resort treatments, exacerbate infection outcomes and healthcare costs. Inappropriate antibiotic use worsens this challenge. To address these issues, Benin implemented its National Multisectoral AMR Action Plan 2019-2024.

AIM: This study aims to assess the implementation of Benin's National AMR Action Plan 2019-2024 and identify critical gaps for future updates.

SETTING

The evaluation covered six of Benin's 12 departments, engaging stakeholders from human, animal and environmental health sectors.

METHODS

A retrospective cross-sectional evaluation was performed from 05 August 2024 to 30 September 2024. Data were collected through a documentary review, standardised questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and group discussions. An executed scoring grid and a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats analysis were used.

RESULTS

Of the 224 planned activities, 40.18% were not initiated, 31.25% had started, 19.64% were partially executed, 5.36% were nearly completed and only 3.57% were fully implemented. Critical gaps included the lack of a fully operational multisectoral coordination group, limited financial resources, inadequate surveillance systems, insufficient communication and education initiatives and the absence of infection prevention and control (IPC) programmes.

CONCLUSION

Despite progress in regulatory frameworks, gaps in coordination, resources, surveillance and IPC hinder effective AMR control in Benin. Strengthening governance, communication and addressing other identified gaps are critical for future success.

CONTRIBUTION: This evaluation provides evidence-based recommendations to update Benin's AMR strategy within a 'One Health' framework.