PNG hosted the 7th National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Symposium in Port Moresby on 18 November 2025, bringing together leaders from the Human Health (National Department of Health), Animal Health and Agriculture (Department of Agriculture and Livestock, National Agriculture & Quarantine Inspection Authority), environment (Conservation & Environmental Protection Authority), and international partners during World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18–24 November).
WHO Deputy Representative to Papua New Guinea, Dr Josaia Tiko, emphasized that AMR is not just a technical issue, it is a human issue affecting families, communities, and future generations. This year’s theme, “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future,” underscores the urgent need for responsible antimicrobial use in PNG.
AMR is often called a silent pandemic, threatening safe childbirth, cancer treatment, surgery, and even routine infections. In simple terms, AMR happens when germs like bacteria stop responding to medicines that used to kill them. Without strong action, projections for the Western Pacific region between 2020 and 2030 show 5.2 million extra deaths and an economic cost of USD 148 billion.
Papua New Guinea has made significant progress:
- Near completion of the second National Action Plan for AMR (2024–2028).
- Launch of the first National Antimicrobial Guideline for Human Health last year.
- Ongoing training for hospitals and Provincial Health Authorities.
- Active participation in global forums, including the Tokyo AMR One Health Conference and WHO regional meetings.
Despite achievements, challenges remain - Limited funding, workforce shortages, and data gaps. AMR threatens not only human health but also animals, plants, and the environment. Global partnerships, such as the 2022 agreement between FAO, WOAH, UNEP, and WHO, reflect the urgency of coordinated action.
The symposium reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to fight AMR through collaboration, research, and policy. WHO pledged continued support for surveillance, technical assistance, and implementation of the AMR Action Plan.
“We owe it to future generations to stop the misuse of antimicrobials and act against drug-resistant infections today,” Dr Tiko concluded.