Makerere crew battles AMR in Katanga Kamwokya

Medical experts from Makerere University have brought their fight against antimicrobial resistance to the Kampala slums. They visited Katanga and Kamwokya communities Friday as part of an ongoing health campaign. The Uganda Youth Consortium aims to reduce deaths from bacteria, viruses, and fungi that no longer respond to medicines. AMR caused 1.27 million global deaths in 2019 and contributes to nearly 5 million deaths worldwide.

According to campaign leaders, Uganda faces about 30,000 annual deaths from drug-resistant infections. Maureen Kisakye, a microbiology lab technologist, emphasized the urgency of community action. Dr. Fred Edema Otto said the group uses various approaches, including music, dance, drama, and social media, to spread awareness. The campaign distributes soap and washing supplies to improve hygiene practices.

Over 300 youth from universities across Uganda have trained as AMR awareness champions. The program targets medical professionals beyond doctors who play key roles in patient diagnosis and treatment. Douglas Bulafu highlighted how slum conditions—poor housing, inadequate drainage, and overcrowding—make residents especially vulnerable to these health threats. Campaign leaders called on city authorities to improve planning and reduce poor sanitation that drives antimicrobial resistance.
 

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