Antimicrobial Stewardship
Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) is the coordinated effort to optimize the use of antimicrobials—including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics—to achieve the best clinical outcomes while minimizing resistance, side effects, and costs.
At AMR Initiative Rwanda, we champion AMS across hospitals, veterinary practices, agriculture, and community health. Our approach promotes the right drug, at the right dose, at the right time, for the right duration.
Why AMS Matters
- Improves patient outcomes and reduces unnecessary prescriptions
- Preserves antimicrobial effectiveness for future generations
- Reduces resistance-related infections and hospital stays
- Supports public health and national AMR containment goals
Our AMS Initiatives in Rwanda
- Healthcare Training: Partnering with hospitals and health schools to train pharmacists, nurses, and doctors in responsible antimicrobial use.
- AMS Toolkit: Developing context-specific guidelines and prescription audit tools for clinical settings.
- Youth Empowerment: Engaging students and young professionals in AMS-focused campaigns and certificate programs.
- Community Awareness: Educating the public on the dangers of self-medication and the importance of completing prescriptions.
- One Health Strategy: Promoting stewardship in animal and environmental sectors to ensure a holistic response.
Key Principles of AMS
- Only use antimicrobials when clearly needed.
- Base treatment decisions on local resistance data.
- Prescribe the correct drug at the right dose and duration.
- Review and de-escalate therapy when appropriate.
- Educate patients on adherence and possible side effects.
Partnerships and Capacity Building
We collaborate with:
- Ministry of Health Rwanda and Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC)
- World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC
- ZeroX Intelligence – for AI-powered prescribing support tools
- Pharmacy associations and health training institutions
How to Get Involved
If you're a healthcare worker, student, or policymaker, you can:
- Join our AMS workshops or certificate programs
- Integrate AMS into your clinical or veterinary practice
- Become an AMR Awareness Advocate in your community
📧 Interested in our AMS resources or partnerships?
Email us at info@amrinitiativerwanda.org
