The COMBAT-AMR project has established a partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) and Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) to support the work across the Animal Health project theme in Samoa.

Using a One Health approach, the project will work in partnership with MAF and SROS to assess strengths and opportunities to improve current practices, policies, procedures and systems for monitoring and controlling antimicrobial resistance in animal health.

Incorrect use of antimicrobials in animals can drive the emergence of resistance within bacteria carried within these populations. Once resistant, the bacteria has the ability to spread from farms to trade and food processing environments that intersect with people.

COMBAT-AMR will leverage the expertise of MAF and SROS to complete a situation and needs assessment designed to provide a comprehensive overview of current national-level policies and practices in place in Samoa to address antimicrobial resistance.

MAF is the principal organisation in Samoa which provides regulatory and technical advice, training and support for subsistence and commercial farmers, agri-processors, and exporters, including working with veterinary specialists and paravets to complete drenching activities for farmers. Working in collaboration with COMBAT – AMR, MAF will engage with the animal health sector to understand resistance to commonly used antimicrobial agents.

Established in 2006, SROS is in place to promote and improve the development of Samoa through scientific research and innovation in the health, environment, energy and agricultural sectors.

SROS looks forward to providing its research capabilities and expertise to support the identification of opportunities that will lead to the improvement of our animal and livestock health under this partnership with COMBAT-AMR and MAF.

Findings from the situation and needs assessment will be used to establish tailored training and mentorship programs, designed for key in-country professionals to address gaps in monitoring and controlling the risk of antimicrobial resistance in animal health. During this process, the project will encourage sustainability of the programs through the development of an international network of the professionals involved in monitoring and controlling the risk of antimicrobial resistance in animal health across Pacific countries.