Assessing the extent of multisectoral collaboration in antimicrobial resistance interventions

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health risk that compromises the efficacy of antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines vital to human and animal well-being. Containment of AMR requires robust multisectoral collaboration (MSC). We determined the extent to which MSC in strengthening AMR interventions in Uganda occurs. We conducted a cross-sectional study among AMR stakeholders in Uganda during November 2024–February 2025. We purposively selected adults aged ≥ 18 years. Data were collected using tools adapted from the WHO’s Tripartite AMR Country Self-Assessment Survey (TrACSS, 2023) and the EPICAP One Health surveillance evaluation tool (2022), tailored to capture Uganda-specific multisectoral collaboration for AMR. Data on sociodemographic factors and MSC for AMR were collected. Multisectoral collaboration was categorized as either non-existent, existent, or established. A total of 166 participants were included, with 49% being aged 31–40 years and most holding at least a master’s degree (53%). Multisectoral collaboration for AMR was reported to be established by 33% of participants and was observed to exist among 55% of the stakeholders. Multisectoral collaboration for AMR was partially established, with less than half of participants reporting shared leadership (73/166, 44%) and most indicating representation of relevant sectors (132/166, 80%) and inclusion of relevant disciplines (121/166, 73%). While a majority noted the existence of a national strategic plan (141/166, 85%) and that MSC contributes to stakeholder awareness (128/166, 77%), intersectoral coordination, preparedness, and resource availability were limited, with structured coordination reported by 52/166 (31%), dedicated budgets by 12/166 (7%), and assigned human resources by 6/166 (4%). Collaboration modalities were mostly defined and present but only partially operational (103/166, 62%), and supporting documentation was partial (87/166, 52%), with MSC often defined but not fully aligned with stakeholder expectations (77/166, 46%). Multisectoral collaboration for AMR in Uganda is partially established, with sector representation and strategic planning. However, there is limited shared leadership, coordination, and resource allocation. Strengthening intersectoral coordination, ensuring dedicated resources, and aligning collaboration with stakeholder expectations could enhance the effectiveness of AMR governance.