Sierra Leone has reached a decisive milestone in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) with the finalization and costing of its second National Action Plan (NAP 2.0) for 2026–2030. Building on the achievements of the first plan (2018–2022), this new roadmap sustains momentum while addressing existing gaps and emerging priorities. It represents not just a plan, but a promise to protect lives, strengthen health systems, and contribute meaningfully to the global AMR response.
From March 24–27, 2026, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), convened a four‑day consultative workshop at the Royal Hotel Makeni in Bombali District. The workshop brought together stakeholders across the One Health platform: human, animal, agricultural, food safety, and environmental sectors, alongside technical and development partners. This inclusive process reinforced national ownership and accountability, ensuring that the plan reflects both Sierra Leone’s realities and its global commitments.
Over the course of the workshop, participants refined the strategic framework of NAP 2.0, which is structured around six major objectives: raising awareness and changing behavior, strengthening surveillance systems, improving infection prevention, ensuring access and stewardship of antimicrobials, driving research and innovation, and securing governance and financing. Stakeholders then moved into operational planning, identifying SMART activities, clarifying responsibilities, and mapping pathways for implementation.
The final two days focused on costing and budgeting. Guided by facilitators trained in WHO’s costing methodology, participants applied professional expertise, procurement knowledge, and foresight on inflation to produce a fully costed plan. Outputs summarized costs by strategic objectives, responsible ministries, and key indicators, while also identifying funding gaps to inform resource mobilization strategies. A robust monitoring and evaluation framework was developed to track progress, measure impact, and ensure accountability throughout implementation.
The importance of this milestone cannot be overstated. By fully costing the plan, Sierra Leone has ensured that activities are realistic, measurable, and financially supported. The consultative process strengthened collaboration across sectors, while the alignment with WHO standards and the One Health approach positioned Sierra Leone as a committed partner in the global AMR fight.
The Government of Sierra Leone extends its deep gratitude to the World Health Organization (WHO) for its technical support and guidance throughout the process. Appreciation is also conveyed to all national stakeholders, technical experts, and development partners whose collaboration and commitment made this achievement possible.
With NAP 2.0 now finalized, costed, and ready for implementation, Sierra Leone has a clear roadmap for 2026–2030. The plan will be printed and widely disseminated to ensure accessibility and alignment among stakeholders nationwide. More than a policy document, it is a collective commitment to safeguard public health, protect future generations, and contribute to global resilience against antimicrobial resistance.
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