News in Brief:
– FAO launches an initiative to reduce global antimicrobial use in farming, emphasising sustainable practices and local farmer empowerment.
– Pilot programs in Indonesia, Uganda, and Nigeria demonstrate positive impacts on livestock management and antimicrobial reduction.
In response to the pressing issue of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in agriculture, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has launched an initiative called Reduce the Need for Antimicrobials on Farms for Sustainable Agrifood Systems Transformation (RENOFARM).
This initiative targets a significant reduction in antimicrobial use in farming practices worldwide, addressing concerns surrounding human health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.
The agency mentions that the persistent use of antimicrobials in livestock production poses a threat not only to global health but also to the livelihoods of local farmers.
FAO Director-General QU Dongyu emphasised the urgency of exploring innovative solutions to combat this issue, safeguarding public health and the environment while improving livestock productivity.
The initiative aims to provide policy support, technical assistance, and capacity building to countries, empowering them to prioritise animal health and welfare, mitigate environmental impact, and enhance food security and nutrition.
Collaborative efforts and pilot programs
Working in collaboration with governments, farmers, private sectors, and civil society organisations, RENOFARM promotes the adoption of sustainable practices through the “5 Gs” framework: Good Health Services, Good Production Practices, Good Alternatives, Good Connections, and Good Incentives.
Pilot programs in Indonesia, Uganda, and Nigeria demonstrate the initiative’s practical implementation and positive impact on local farming communities. For instance, in Indonesia’s Lampung province, the establishment of a Farmers Field School has empowered local farmers, leading to improved livestock management practices and reduced antimicrobial use.
The launch of RENOFARM sets the stage for global collaboration and concrete actions to combat AMR. As international meetings approach, including the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Meeting on AMR and the High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR, FAO aims to garner actionable steps and commitments from stakeholders worldwide. Additionally, the upcoming Global Conference on Animal Health Innovation will provide a platform to exchange insights and identify strategies for sustainable livestock transformation and antimicrobial resistance mitigation.
