Senator Kibwana raises alarm over child deaths linked to antibiotic resistance

Senate Chamber
Wednesday, 4th June 2025

Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has sought a statement from the Senate Committee on Health regarding the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), emphasizing its deadly impact on children in Kenya and across Africa. Senator Kibwana raised the issue on the Floor of the Senate, calling for urgent action.

She highlighted that in 2022, over 659,000 child deaths across Africa were linked directly to antibiotic-resistant infections. Kenya, she said, is among countries facing an alarming rise in the misuse of antibiotics meant for cautious use.

"Antibiotics meant to be used cautiously are being misused. This misuse comes from weak regulation, poor diagnostic systems, and insufficient medical infrastructure," Senator Hamida warned. "It’s a crisis threatening our healthcare system and our national development."

Hamida specifically requested the Health Committee to provide an update on the status and effectiveness of Kenya’s surveillance systems against antimicrobial resistance. She asked the Ministry of Health to detail its measures to regulate the prescription of critical antibiotics, especially for children.

She further urged clarity on Kenya's implementation of the World Health Organization's recommended National Action Plan and stressed the importance of better diagnostics, training for healthcare workers, and raising public awareness to curb misuse.