SCOPE-AMR
Surveillance of Clinical Outcomes and Patient-Centred Effects of Antimicrobial Resistance
Context
Antimicrobial resistance occurs when antibiotics lose their effectiveness against bacterial infections. It is a growing public health concern, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Key contributing factors include uncontrolled access to antibiotics, inappropriate use in human and animal medicine, and limited access to laboratory-based diagnostics. Many rural areas lack adequate laboratory services. In addition, there is little information on how infection with resistant pathogens affects the course of the disease and the treatment outcomes for patients. The project aims to further develop antimicrobial resistance surveillance in Ghana and Tanzania by systematically linking laboratory results with clinical information and patient outcomes. Routine samples such as blood, urine, and stool are collected to identify bacteria and test their response to antibiotics. Clinical data and patient outcomes are systematically rec-orded. The project also examines health system factors, antibiotic use practices, and hos-pital hygiene conditions to support targeted prevention and control measures. The project builds on its predecessor, EXPAND-AMR, and existing antimicrobial re-sistance surveillance initiatives. It works in close collaboration with hospitals, laboratories, and research institutions in Ghana and Tanzania, togeth-er with international partners.
Objective
Improved patient-centred surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Tanzania and Ghana
In Cooperation with
- National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Tanga, Tanzania
- Health Improvement Project, Zanzibar (HIPZ), Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Kumasi Center for Collaborative Research (KCCR), Kumasi, Ghana
Thematic priorities
Facts
Activities
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Research and provision of evidence
The project generates evidence through implementation research, patient-centred AMR surveillance, and analysis of antimicrobial use and resistance. It evaluates interventions, infection control strategies, and resource use. It provides data-driven insights to guide public health measures, optimise antimicrobial stewardship, and inform policy and clinical decision-making in resource-limited settings.
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Networking and cooperation
The project strengthens existing and new partnerships between hospitals, laboratories, research institutions, and health authorities in Ghana, Tanzania, and Germany. Regular exchange formats, joint analyses, and coordinated workflows promote sustainable cross-sectoral collaboration on antimicrobial resistance.
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Capacity building
The project strengthens organisational capacity by enhancing laboratory infrastructure, standardising diagnostic and surveillance procedures, and implementing structured onboarding and knowledge management systems for hospital staff. It supports the sustainable national AMR surveillance, improves data quality, and builds institutional frameworks that enable effective infection control, stewardship, and evidence-based public health interventions.
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Training and competence development
The project strengthens individual competencies through structured training, mentoring, and knowledge management for hospital and laboratory staff. Personnel are trained in diagnostic stewardship, AMR surveillance, and data management, supported by research assignments and digital platforms. This ensures that staff are competent to deliver high-quality, sustainable AMR monitoring and patient care.
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Policy Support
The project supports policy development by advising ministries of health on national AMR strategies, contributing to action plan formulation, and aligning surveillance with international standards. By integrating clinical, behavioural, and contextual data, it strengthens evidence-based decision-making, guides public health policies, and promotes compliance with the International Health Regulations.
