THE government in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is set to implement a campaign that aims to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and zoonotic diseases.

Some behaviour that contributes to AMR is limited medical and scientific understanding among communities, thus leaving the country vulnerable to outbreaks of infectious diseases.

“This new campaign will bridge knowledge gaps and offer examples of what people can do to reduce chances of spreading disease or getting sick,” said Dr Godwin Mollel, Deputy Minister for Health in Dar es Salaam at the weekend during the launch of the campaign.

Dr Mollel added that raising awareness and fostering behaviour change would help mitigate the threats posed by antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases.

He said zoonotic diseases spread between animals and humans and are problematic because many cause outbreaks and pandemics. He said it is important to focus on identifying, managing and ultimately stopping the diseases to keep people and animals healthy, thus avoiding economic and societal problems.

Dubbed 'Holela-Holela Itakukosti' (Recklessness Will Cost You), the campaign will be implemented by Johns Hopkins’ Center for Communication Programmes as part of the USAID Breakthrough Action project. 

Alex Klaits, Acting Mission Director for USAID said: "The campaign highlights the critical role of partnerships in fostering positive impact and ensuring long-term sustainability, uniting One Health stakeholders from diverse sectors to combat priority zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance."

Klaits said that the U.S government remains committed to building healthy communities and moving from awareness to action.

“We encourage everyone to support this campaign. Together, let us move forward to protect the health and well-being of Tanzanians,” he said.

"Addressing AMR and zoonotic diseases requires a holistic approach that includes human health, animal health and environmental health," said Brig Gen Hosea Ndagala, Director of Disaster Management in the Prime Minister’s Office. 

Dr Salum Manyatta, Assistant Director for One Health at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, emphasized the critical role of proper livestock management.

"Improving animal husbandry practices and ensuring the judicious use of antimicrobials are essential to controlling the spread of zoonotic diseases. Our efforts in this campaign will help protect both animal and human health," he said.

The campaign marks a significant step forward in Tanzania's efforts to address antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases through a ‘One Health approach, he said, adding that by uniting human, animal, and environmental health sectors, the campaign  will ensure a sustainable and healthier future for all. 

The 'Holela-Holela Itakukosti' campaign builds on the 60 years of partnership between the people of the US and Tanzania. As Tanzania’s largest bilateral donor, the US has contributed more than $7.5 billion in assistance in the last 20 years to strengthen security, boost economic growth, expand democratic participation and improve health, education, and nutrition for ordinary Tanzanians.