: Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae poses a global problem and complicates therapeutic choices. The paucity of data in resource-poor countries undermines the understanding of the problem’s extent, and cases of antimicrobial treatment failure continue to accumulate. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and clinical implications of ESBL-producers at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali in Rwanda. A 1-year cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted on Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated in blood and urine from January 1 to December 31, 2022. In total, 1,283 isolates were recorded. The results showed an overall prevalence of ESBL phenotypes at 300/1,283 (23.4%). Extended spectrum beta-lactamase–positive E. coli was more frequently detected than K. pneumoniae in both urine (20.6% versus 10.1%) and blood (8.8% versus 6.2%). These isolates were 100% resistant to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, third-generation cephalosporins, piperacillin, sulbactam ampicillin, ampicillin, cefuroxime, and cefoxitin. The least resistance was observed to amikacin (18%), meropenem (10%), and polymyxin B (3%). Hospital stays ranging from 8 to 21 days were the most frequent, and the mortality rate was 10.3% in patients with ESBL cases, which was more than double the general hospital mortality rate in the same period. In conclusion, our findings indicate a high prevalence of ESBL phenotypes, high antibiotic resistance rates, prolonged hospital stays, and an increased mortality rate. These findings suggest the need for continued surveillance, planning appropriate interventions, and caution during empirical therapy.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat linked to increased morbidity and mortality. It has the potential to return us to the pre-antibiotic era. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are recognized as a key intervention to improve antimicrobial use and combat AMR. However, implementation of AMS remains limited in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This study aimed to assess prescription practices, identify areas for improvement, and promote adherence to AMS principles. Conducted at King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda, this qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with eight participants until saturation was reached. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed, revealing four emerging themes. The first theme was on AMS activities that were working well based on availability of microbiology laboratory results and prescription guidelines as factors influencing antibiotic prescription adjustments. The second theme was related to challenges during the implementation of the AMS program, including the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, limited local data on AMR patterns, and stock-outs of essential antibiotics. The third theme was on the importance of adhering to AMR management guidelines at KFH. The last emerged on recommendations from participants centered on regular training for healthcare workers, widespread dissemination of AMR findings across departments, and the enforcement of antibiotic restriction policies. These actions can improve prescription behaviors, upholding the highest standards of patient care, and strengthening the nascent AMS program.