Antimicrobial resistance in zoonotic pathogens – a challenge for urban small holder livestock production system

This project aims to contribute to reduced spread of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) zoonotic bacteria in urban livestock production systems in low-income countries (LIC). This will be done by providing new data on spread and diversity of antimicrobial resistant Campylobacter strains.

Drivers to mitigate disease and reduce antimicrobial usage will also be generated which will facilitate future initiatives for coordinated actions to reduce spread of AMR. In LIC poultry production is important for livelihood and for food and nutrition security.

Campylobacteriosis is one of the major bacterial public health risks globally and poultry meat is the most important route of transmission. In addition, AMR in Campylobacter is a growing concern.

The project will be conducted among informal smallholder urban poultry and large scale commercial, and at food markets in Kampala, Uganda.

Data will be generated on antibiotic usage on farm level, and farmers and food handlers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices related to spread and mitigation of AMR Campylobacter.

The project contextualizes challenges with urban livestock production, AMR and antibiotic usage, and pathogenic zoonotic bacteria.

It focuses on knowledge gaps related to spread of zoonotic bacteria resistant to antimicrobials at certain points in the poultry value chain.

Generated results will likely be valid in other East African countries, as few studies have been published on AMR and Campylobacter in this region.