By Jacky Achan
Livestock farmers need to urgently reduce the overuse of antibiotics in livestock farming because reports indicate that it is driving antimicrobial resistance (AMR), according to the World Animal Protection, a global animal advocacy organisation.
AMR poses a grave threat to both human and animal health as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in livestock evolve to resist the effects of the medicines designed to treat them, causing the emergence of superbugs resistant to multiple drugs.
Antibiotics are vital for treating infections in humans and animals, but their overuse in animal farming, especially as growth promoters or disease preventers, significantly spreads AMR.
The demand for livestock-derived foods projected to grow by 30% by 2030 underscores the need for responsible antibiotic use in animal agriculture.
The global consumption of meat and milk is expected to more than double by 2050, increasing pressure on farming systems that are already contributing to the rise of AMR.
In Africa, where industrial livestock systems are expanding rapidly, the threat of AMR is growing rapidly.
World Animal Protection called upon livestock to commit to responsible use of antibiotics, end their use as growth promoters, support humane farming practices that reduce use of antibiotics, and join global efforts to transform food systems.
It also called for the strengthening of policies and regulations to ensure that antibiotics are used judiciously.
Dr Patrick Muinde, the research manager at World Animal Protection, said the link between industrial animal agriculture and the rise of AMR cannot be ignored.
He raised the concern during a virtual meet to commemorate World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024.
Muinde disclosed that in many intensive farming systems, antibiotics are used routinely to treat infections and compensate for poor living conditions that stress animals.
The 2018 Uganda Annual Agricultural Survey shows on average one in every three livestock keepers had used antibiotics in the previous year, with 15% using antibiotics at least every month in the previous year.
Another study found that 25% of livestock farmers in Uganda were using antibiotics for either curative, preventive, vaccination, or growth promotion purposes.
Muinde cautioned that misuse of antibiotics accelerates the development of resistant bacteria that can be transmitted to people through the food chain, direct contact with animals, or environmental contamination.
“The future of our food systems depends on transforming agriculture to be more humane and sustainable, reducing the spread of AMR.
“By reducing our reliance on antibiotics in farming and adopting practices that prioritise animal welfare, we can build a healthier future for both people and animals.”
LEAD PHOTO CAPTION: Dr. Patrick Muinde, the Research Manager at World Animal Protection.
