The Southern African Society for Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine (SASVEPM) held its 22nd Annual Congress from 20-22 August in White River, South Africa, under the theme “Epidemiology at the Edge: Tackling Disease Threats at Southern Africa’s Interfaces.” The hybrid congress brought together more than 400 delegates from across Africa and internationally, creating a vibrant platform for scientific exchange, capacity building, and collaboration. 

Serving in his dual role as the Global Program Specialist (AMR) at ISID and the Outgoing President of SASVEPM, Dr. Mohamed Sirdar played a central part in this year’s congress. In addition to presiding over key sessions, he delivered a scientific presentation on 21st August 2025 at the conference titled: “Translating data into evidence-based decisions: key findings and lessons from ISID ProMED-AMR reports (2023–2024)”. 

Dr. Sirdar emphasized how platforms like ProMED-AMR complement traditional laboratory-based and government-led AMR surveillance systems by providing a faster, more inclusive means of tracking resistance trends across countries and sectors. He argued that strengthening non-traditional surveillance mechanisms is vital for bridging gaps, amplifying underrepresented voices, and ensuring that global data reflects local realities.

Reflecting on ISID’s mission, Dr. Sirdar remarked: “As we advance ISID’s mission to improve infectious disease surveillance worldwide, platforms like ProMED-AMR play a critical role in ensuring timely, inclusive, and actionable data for the global community. Presenting this work at SASVEPM, while serving as Outgoing President, reflects the importance of linking regional and global voices in the AMR response."

From his opening remarks to the Congress, Dr. Sirdar also set the tone for collaboration and inspiration: “Let us begin this congress with a spirit of curiosity, openness, and determination… to carry forward the mission of safeguarding animal and human health in Southern Africa.”

This contribution underscored ISID’s leadership in advancing global AMR surveillance, research, and policy translation, while also demonstrating how regional engagement through SASVEPM strengthens international networks dedicated to protecting human, animal, and environmental health.