Zihi Institute

𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀 (𝗔𝗦𝗣𝘀) 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲-𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮? Gitonga and colleagues (2025) provide a compelling answer through their rigorous assessment of ASP implementation across selected healthcare facilities in Nyeri and Kisumu counties. The study evaluates the progress of ASPs from 2019 to 2023 using a structured 33-item questionnaire adapted from CDC and WHO guidelines. The findings are striking—ASP implementation surged from a mere 12% to 76% in Nyeri and from 17% to 78% in Kisumu. Core governance, accountability, and medical expertise reached full implementation, reflecting the power of targeted interventions. Yet, challenges persist. Tracking antimicrobial use and resistance remains inadequate, with process measures languishing at 33% in Kisumu and 19% in Nyeri. Limited microbiology services and inconsistent adherence to treatment guidelines further hinder progress. 𝗚𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀: 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗰𝗼𝗹𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗦𝗣𝘀, 𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗮𝗽𝘀.  Amidst the escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), this study underscores Kenya's ambitious efforts to combat misuse of antimicrobials. Nkatha Gitonga, Mitchel Okumu, PhD, Oscar Agoro, Ndinda Kusu, MPH, MSc, B.Pharm, Joseph Mukoko, Helen Wangai, Tamara Hafner and Mohan Joshi Luchuo Engelbert Bain

We were privileged to have worked hand in hand with Zihi Institute in Antimicrobial sensitization and also representing Pwani University from December to February.Some of the activities involved were; 1.Capacity Building: Selected community groups received targeted training on the etiology of AMR, its global epidemiological impact, and effective strategies for disseminating AMR-related information within diverse community segments. 2.Protocol Development: A structured sensitization protocol was developed, outlining target demographics, intervention strategies, and a detailed implementation schedule. 3.Community-Based Intervention: A seven-week community sensitization campaign was implemented, with a focus on agricultural workers, pharmaceutical vendors, hospital staff, and healthcare providers. Interventions included didactic presentations, visual aids (banners and posters), and interactive discussions. This phase aimed to enhance community understanding of AMR. 4.Data Collection and Needs Assessment: The intervention facilitated the collection of qualitative data regarding community perceptions of AMR, identification of prevalent practices contributing to AMR, and the provision of evidence-based guidance to mitigate AMR proliferation. This process allowed for an assessment of the community's current knowledge and practices related to antimicrobial usage, and to provide targeted interventions.

𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗼𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆? The COVID-19 pandemic exposed glaring weaknesses in multilateral health governance, raising a critical question: Is the global system truly fit to manage future health emergencies? Rahman-Shepherd and colleagues (2025) argue that regional cooperation and organizations hold the key to a more effective and equitable global health response. Their study highlights the increasing recognition of regional institutions as essential players in pandemic preparedness, offering tailored solutions where global frameworks often fail. Drawing on multidisciplinary perspectives, the authors emphasize that regional organizations—like the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)—have proven their capacity to mobilize resources, harmonize policies, and strengthen local health systems. By reducing reliance on power-dominated global mechanisms, regional entities can facilitate faster, more contextually relevant responses to public health crises. However, the paper warns that structural challenges—such as geopolitical power imbalances, financial constraints, and governance limitations—must be addressed for regional organizations to fulfill their potential. The authors call for stronger regional identities, sustainable financing, and equitable partnerships to consolidate regional health governance. In a world where pandemics are inevitable, Rahman-Shepherd and colleagues make a compelling case: the future of global health security may depend not on a singular international response, but on empowered regional cooperation. Afifah Rahman-Shepherd, Nelson Aghogho Evaborhene, Ayelet Berman, PhD, Ana B. Amaya, DrPH MPH, Ezekiel Boro, Osman Dar, Zheng Jie Marc Ho, Anne-Sophie Jung, Mishal Khan, Olaa Mohamed-Ahmed, Oyeronke Oyebanji, Tikki Elka Pangestu, Sabina Faiz Rashid, Ahmed Razavi, Pia Riggirozzi, Helena Legido-Quigley, Li Yang Hsu Luchuo Engelbert Bain

In the wake of serious health threats such as #emerging infectious diseases and #AntimicrobialResistance, #domesticinvestment in health research and development (R&D) is critical. Not only is it important in improving public health, strengthening health security and catalyzing economic growth but it provides countries with autonomy, aligning #research with local priorities, and ensures sustainability.  One of the major ways in which countries can allocate domestic funding to health research and development is through direct #government #budgetallocations. We are happy to have been invited and represented by Daniel Waruingi at the Budget Advocacy Workshop as part of the The Coalition for Health Research and Development (CHReaD) Kenya family. The workshop organized by Health NGOs Network - HENNET KENYA, Bajeti Hub and Coalition For Health Research and Development WACI Health Kenya brought together civil society actors from various counties across Kenya to learn and discuss more Budget advocacy with a specific lens on the health sector. We are happy to have been part of the discussion and grateful for the opportunity to present The Coalition for Health Research and Development (CHReaD) Health Research and Development (R&D) Budgetary Analysis findings. The workshop offered us a lot of insights, and strengthened our resolve to advocate for more domestic investment in collaboration with other civil society actors and research institutions. Be on the lookout for interventions in the course of the year. #Domesticinvestment #healthresearchand development #budgetadvocacy #infectiousdiseases #globalhealthsecurity #Antimicrobialresistance #civilsocieties #researchinsitutions

I'm humbled to share that I recently joined the first of three convening meetings conducted by the Fleming Initiative. These meetings bring together experts and key stakeholders to discuss AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) education in school-aged children. The goal is to achieve a global consensus on what children and adolescents should know about AMR, empowering the next generation with vital knowledge. During this meeting, Dr. AGATHON KIMARIO ,Jonaviva Anthony and I had a fantastic opportunity to present our AMR handbook initiative. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm and collaborative spirit among participants as we worked towards creating meaningful educational resources for young minds. Looking forward to the upcoming sessions and continuing this important work. Together, we can make a difference! Much appreciation to our Mentor Daniel Waruingi For always being a good Mentor. Fleming Initiative Zihi Institute Tanzania Health Awake-THA (Youth Led NGO)

#FromourResearchDesk. One of our recent articles, entitled, “Enhancing the general public knowledge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Africa: a video-based Brief Educational Resource Review”, published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, highlights the critical role of YouTube in creating AMR Awareness. What is AMR? AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites resist medicines, making infections harder to treat. 🎓 Why AMR Awareness Matters Low public knowledge of AMR leads to misuse of antimicrobials, fueling AMR. AMR Education through digital platforms such as YouTube can help simplify complex AMR concepts. 📺 YouTube as an AMR Learning Tool YouTube videos provide accessible and engaging informative and educative content. In fact, studies indicate that YouTube has emerged as an efficient and reliable medical educational resource because of its ease of access and use coupled with the increase in online presence, especially by youths. What were the key 📊 findings and challenges noted in this study? Read more about the study here: https://lnkd.in/dnnVVVT8 Jimmy Nkaiwuatei Ngoni Veddie Muzondo Samar Akbi Hafeez Hamza #Research #ZihiInstitute

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝘂𝗯-𝗦𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮? Kapatsa and colleagues (2025) deliver a sobering analysis of the behavioral and socio-economic determinants fueling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region grappling with one of the highest global AMR mortality rates. Their systematic review identifies a lethal combination of self-medication, financial barriers, regulatory failures, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure as key drivers of this escalating crisis. A staggering 83% of the studies reviewed revealed rampant self-medication and improper antibiotic use, often driven by financial constraints (50%) and poor community awareness (53%). Healthcare providers, too, contribute to the crisis—63% of studies highlighted widespread non-evidence-based prescription practices, while 47% underscored the regulatory vacuum enabling the unchecked sale of antibiotics. The absence of robust antimicrobial stewardship programs (40%) further compounds the crisis, allowing resistance to spread unchecked. The authors emphasize that AMR is not merely a medical issue but a deeply ingrained societal challenge, intertwined with economic hardships, inadequate education, and healthcare disparities. They call for urgency in policy reform, strengthened community education, and enhanced regulation to curb the spread of AMR. Without decisive action, SSA faces a future where once-treatable infections become untamed killers, jeopardizing public health and economic stability across the continent. Thandizo Kapatsa Adriano Lubanga (M.D) Akim Bwanali Dr. Gracian Harawa, MBBS, Dr. Steward Mudenda, PhD, MPH, MSc, BPharm Pascal Chipewa, Mapeesho Kamayani, Tumaini John Makole Abdisalam Yusuf Ali, Dr Abdullahi Abdirasak, Kim Tae Youn, Laurie Kimbrel Luchuo Engelbert Bain Daniel Won Matthew Kim Tarek Emir Chehab Thomas Nyirenda

✨ Shaping the Future of Health Research and Development (R&D)in Kenya! 🌍🔬 In line with our mandate as a research institution, Zihi Institute was thrilled to participate in the CHREAD (Coalition for Health Research & Development) Communication Strategy Workshop, held from February 12th to 14th, 2025, where we came together with incredible partners to co-develop a communications strategy and work plan for 2025 — a crucial step in advancing health R&D advocacy in Kenya and beyond! We are proud to pledge our leadership in several strategic campaigns throughout the year, including: ✅ Vaccine Manufacturing – Featuring World Immunization Week in April. ✅ Innovation in R&D – Highlighting Community Engagement in R&D in June. ✅ Intellectual Property in R&D – Marking World Youth Skills Day in July. ✅ Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) – Anchored in World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) in November. Throughout the year, we’ll drive conversations around these key advocacy messages: 👉 Health R&D is a critical investment for Kenya’s development. 👉 Success stories and research impact deserve to be showcased. 👉 Increased funding and policy support are essential to advance health innovation. We believe that by championing these messages, we can foster an ecosystem that not only supports cutting-edge research but also ensures that innovations reach the communities that need them most. A heartfelt thank you to our Community Engagement Director, Gathai Mundia for representing us, The Coalition for Health Research and Development (CHReaD) and all partners for creating a collaborative space where bold ideas translate into meaningful action. Let’s keep building a healthier, more resilient future together! 🚀 #HealthResearch #RND #GlobalHealth #CommunityEngagement #Innovation #AMR #OneHealth #ZihiInstitute #CHREAD

I feel deeply grateful to see our article finally published in JAC-AMR. It was an honour to be part of this incredible writing team. Many thanks to Zihi Institute Students Against Superbugs Africa for this opportunity. AMR is an important threat and I believe that an active involvement of young scientists especially from LMICs is essential to tackle it. Jimmy Nkaiwuatei Hafeez Hamza Ngoni Veddie Muzondo it was a pleasure to work with young leaders full of potential, energy and enthusiasm like you. I hope that many other opportunities are yet to come. Link to the full article: https://lnkd.in/eFTQTKkW

From our Research Desk Our latest publication showcases findings from a study that focused on understanding the knowledge of medical students in Eastern Uganda , and the factors that (may) influence their motivation to engage in AMR interventions. This aligns with our research priorities at Zihi Institute where we are conducting studies to investigate human-centered factors that influence engagement of different population in AMR interventions Read more about the study through the link below: https://lnkd.in/dzivq-G7 Be on the lookout for upcoming publications through our platforms #AntimicrobialResistance #AntimicrobialStewardship #Sustainability #MedicalEducation #Motivation #OneHealth #Research #PLOSONE