Biosensors at the crossroads of food safety and antimicrobial resistance control in Africa

Antibiotic resistance and foodborne diseases pose severe and intertwined public health threats across Africa, exacerbated by limited diagnostic infrastructure and insufficient food safety monitoring systems. Biosensors, which are portable, rapid, and cost-effective analytical devices, offer a transformative solution to these challenges. This review explores the current and emerging applications of biosensor technologies for detecting antibiotic residues, identifying resistant pathogens, and monitoring contaminants in food systems. We present an overview of the types, mechanisms, and advantages of biosensors, with a balanced focus on electrochemical, optical, and aptamer-based platforms. Through recent case studies and field-ready innovations, we highlight how biosensors enable real-time surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and ensure food quality from farm to fork. Particular attention is given to their relevance and feasibility in African contexts, where laboratory access is limited but mobile technologies are increasingly widespread. While technical, regulatory, and economic barriers remain, the integration of biosensors into healthcare, agriculture, and environmental monitoring systems could significantly improve public health outcomes, reduce economic losses, and support sustainable development. We conclude with actionable recommendations for advancing biosensor adoption through policy support, local capacity building, and cross-sector collaboration. If widely implemented, biosensors have the potential to revolutionize Africa’s response to AMR and food safety challenges by providing timely, scalable, and context-appropriate tools to safeguard human and environmental health.