FAO, WHO Train Egyptian Journalists on Combating Antimicrobial Resistance

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) organized a two-day training workshop in Cairo aimed at strengthening media engagement in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Held on August 13–14 in cooperation with Egypt’s Ministries of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and Health and Population, the event brought together 30 journalists from across the country. Organizers stressed that responsible reporting is crucial in shaping public understanding of AMR, a growing global health threat.

Senior officials and experts addressed the workshop, including Dr. Nima Saeed Abid, WHO Representative in Egypt; Dr. Jacqueline Benat, Acting FAO Representative in Egypt; Dr. Sadhana Bhagwat, Public Health Specialist at WHO’s Regional Office; and Dr. Mohamed El-Qersh, Assistant Minister of Agriculture and ministry spokesperson.

Speakers warned that the misuse of antibiotics in human and animal health is accelerating the spread of resistant infections, with serious implications for food security, sustainable development, and public health worldwide. They emphasized that tackling the crisis requires joint action by policymakers, health professionals, the agricultural sector, and the wider public.

Officials highlighted the crucial role of the media in raising awareness of the dangers of excessive antibiotic use. “Journalists are vital partners in ensuring that people understand both the risks of resistance and the steps needed to prevent it,” participants noted.

The initiative builds on Egypt’s national strategy to combat AMR, which WHO has recognized as a model for other countries due to its coordinated approach across government institutions.