CAMO-Net’s National Hub in Uganda has partnered with the Uganda Youth Consortium to advocate for stricter policies on antimicrobial prescription in the country. This collaboration also aims to raise awareness of the growing AMR burden in Uganda.
On 28 June 2024, the Uganda Youth Consortium partnered with the Centres for Antimicrobial Optimisation Network (CAMO-Net) to host the inaugural National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Conference, focusing on youth-led involvement in combating AMR in Uganda. The event brought together a diverse array of organisations, including the Ministry of Health, the Infectious Diseases Institute of Makerere University, the Ministry of Water and Environment, the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda, and AMR club members from over five universities across the country.
At the conference, Ellon Twinomuhwezi provided an overview of the CAMO-Net Uganda hub, while Dr Conrad Tumwine participated in a panel session discussing the crucial role of youth in the bid to address AMR. The panel emphasised the need for the National Drug Authority to enforce stricter policies on antimicrobial prescription and use.
Dr Tumwine said, “Young people are the driving force in our efforts against antimicrobial resistance. Their energy, innovation, and commitment are crucial in raising awareness, promoting responsible antibiotic use, and shaping policies that safeguard our future health. Empowering the youth is not just an option; it is a necessity for a sustainable and effective response to AMR.”
The conference concluded with the inaugural public awareness initiative, the National AMR Run, called ‘Race Against AMR’ on 29 June 2024. A representative from the Ugandan Ministry of Water and Environment closed the event, which saw various teams participating to raise awareness of the impact AMR has on the community. This run sent a powerful message to the public about the importance of using antibiotics appropriately.
