Together Against AMR: The Fight to Save Lives

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a global health emergency that threatens to undo decades of medical progress. In simple terms, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to the medicines designed to kill them, such as antibiotics. This makes infections harder—and sometimes impossible—to treat, leading to prolonged illnesses, higher medical costs, and increased mortality.

Imagine this: by 2050, if nothing is done, 3 people will die every minute from infections that were once treatable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2024 report, AMR already causes 1.29 million deaths every year globally. Without urgent action, these numbers are projected to skyrocket to 10 million deaths annually by 2050—a crisis that will surpass cancer as a leading cause of death.

The major drivers of AMR are the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials, such as:

• Taking antibiotics without a prescription.
• Not completing prescribed antibiotic courses.
• Overusing antibiotics in agriculture and livestock.

Reducing these practices has been proven effective in curbing AMR, as recommended by the WHO Global Action Plan on AMR and Uganda's National Action Plan on AMR. These plans emphasize the need for Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) programs to promote responsible use of antimicrobials through education, training, and policy implementation.

At Kampala International University (KIU), a group of visionary students launched the AMR Club of KIU in 2022 to address this growing crisis. With the motto “Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance,” the club began as a student-based initiative under the leadership of its first president, Carol Nakimera. It was officially recognized by the university administration and Guild Council in October 2023.

The club’s mission is clear: to raise awareness about AMR among students, staff, and the local community. Unlike traditional perceptions that AMS programs are only for medical students, the AMR Club of KIU actively involves students from all disciplines, recognizing that everyone has a role to play in curbing resistance.

Since its inception, the AMR Club of KIU has made significant strides in spreading AMR awareness through various initiatives:

• School Outreach Programs: In October 2023, the club visited primary and secondary schools in Bushenyi to educate students on the dangers of AMR and proper medicine use.
• Inter-University Competitions: The club participated in the National AMR Championship and a social media contest organized by the Uganda Youth Consortium for Antimicrobial Stewardship (UYCAS).
• Annual AMR Awareness Runs: The club has organized three editions of the AMR Awareness Run under different themes. The most recent, held on November 9, 2024, emphasized community engagement with the theme “Educate. Advocate. Act Now.”
• National Events: The club participated in the PSU Mbarara City World AMR Awareness Week Walk 2023, alongside the Mbarara University AMR Stewardship team.

These activities have not only raised awareness but also inspired lifestyle changes, such as improved medication use and adherence among individuals.

The AMR Awareness Run in particular is an annual flagship event organized by the AMR Club of KIU to engage the community in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. This year’s run, held on November 9, 2024, marked its third edition, under the theme "Educate. Advocate. Act Now." The event brought together students, staff, and local community members, highlighting the urgent need for collective action against AMR. With Dr. Jonans Tusiimire, the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU), as the chief runner, the run fostered awareness through interactive sessions, advocacy campaigns, and community involvement. Proceeds from the run are directed towards supporting AMR awareness drives and other club initiatives, ensuring sustained efforts in promoting responsible use of antimicrobials.

The AMR Club thrives on partnerships with stakeholders like the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU), National Drug Authority (NDA), MTN, and local Rotaract clubs. With their support, the club has overcome numerous challenges and continues to push boundaries. However, the fight against AMR requires even greater collaboration.

AMR affects all of us—students, professionals, and community members. The overuse of antibiotics today means they may not work tomorrow when we need them most. Consider this: by 2050, 10 million deaths annually mean losing loved ones to infections we once considered minor.

How can we mitigate and eventually stop AMR;

• Using antibiotics only when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Completing your prescribed dose of medication.
• Supporting AMS programs like the AMR Club of KIU through funding and advocacy.

Medical students and young professionals have a unique opportunity to lead the fight against AMR. The success of the AMR Club of KIU proves that one initiative, one idea, and one collaborative effort can create a ripple effect of change. Let’s organize, educate, and advocate for a future where antimicrobials remain effective for generations to come.

The future of antibiotics depends on us all. Have you played your part today?

Spread Awareness, Stop Resistance.