Knowledge Translation for the Mitigation of AMR in LMICs

This document is a workshop report by ICARS and the Science for Africa Foundation, summarizing the outcomes of a Round Table Workshop (RTW) on Knowledge Translation (KT) for mitigating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Low-and-Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). The workshop took place during the ICID Congress in Cape Town in December 2024.

Context & purpose

AMR is a major global health threat, particularly in LMICs, where its impact on health, food security, and economic inequality is significant. Despite the availability of research and tools to address AMR, there is a gap in translating this knowledge into practical policies and systems in these regions. The workshop aimed to explore why existing KT tools and resources are underutilized and how they can be better adapted for LMICs.

Key issues discussed

1. Knowledge Translation (KT) challenges – Many AMR mitigation tools are developed in high-income countries and lack relevance to LMIC contexts. The social, cultural, and economic factors influencing AMR interventions in LMICs are often overlooked.
2. Science-policy gap – Research findings do not effectively translate into actionable policies, programmes, and practices due to limited local adaptation, lack of collaboration, and insufficient guidance in implementation.
3. One Health approach – Addressing AMR requires integrated efforts across human, animal, and environmental health, yet LMICs face difficulties in coordinating these efforts effectively.

Workshop participation & methodology

• The three-hour session used a participatory approach to engage 33 experts from 11 countries (including 9 LMICs), representing universities, research institutes, government agencies, hospitals, and funding organizations.
• Discussions focused on leveraging implementation science and stakeholder collaboration to improve KT in LMICs.

Key takeaways

• AMR KT requires a context-specific approach that prioritizes local expertise and adapts tools for LMIC needs.
• A paradigm shift is necessary, emphasizing deeper engagement with policymakers and One Health stakeholders.
• Implementation science and stakeholder-driven KT are crucial for ensuring AMR interventions are effective and sustainable.

The report highlights the need for further exploration and action to bridge the gap between AMR research and real-world application in LMICs.