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AFHEG Foundation Nominated for Social Enterprise Awards

AFHEG Foundation Nominated for Social Enterprise Awards

The AFHEG Foundation is proud to announce its nomination for the Social Enterprise Awards 2024 under the esteemed Health and Social Care Social Enterprise of the Year category. This recognition highlights our relentless commitment to enhancing health literacy and advocating for sustainable health solutions within Uganda’s communities.

Celebrating The AFHEG Foundation’s Impact Through Health Literacy

At AFHEG Foundation, our mission is to empower youth through innovative and engaging educational programs focused on health and climate literacy. By leveraging gamified learning, creative storytelling, and community engagement, we strive to build a healthier, informed generation capable of making wise decisions about their well-being and environmental sustainability.

Our programs, including the Smarty Health Information Hub and the Superbugs Clash board game, have already made significant strides in raising awareness about health issues such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AFHEG Foundation being nominated for Social Enterprise Awards 2024 serves as a testament to the positive impact our initiatives have on the community.

Why This Nomination Matters

Being nominated for the Health and Social Care Social Enterprise of the Year is not just an accolade; it represents an opportunity to amplify our message and expand our reach. The Social Enterprise Awards aim to recognize organizations that are making a tangible difference in the social sector, and we are honoured to be among them.

Voting is open until November 25, 2024, and we invite our supporters, partners, and community members to help us secure this honour. Your vote is crucial in driving our mission forward and enhancing our initiatives.

Vote for AFHEG Foundation here: http://bit.ly/3YBYKYj

AFHEG Foundation and King Ceasor University Launch the AMR Club

AFHEG Foundation Joins Forces with King Ceasor University to Launch the AMR Club, Raising Awareness on Antimicrobial Resistance

On September 14, 2024, the AFHEG Foundation joined King Ceasor University in launching its Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Club, marking a significant step in the university’s fight against one of the most pressing global health threats today. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of community health solutions for antimicrobial resistance and the role of education in combating AMR.

The AMR Club President at King Ceasor University, Brendah Hildah, addresses students about the importance of the club in the community.

Attended by 50 medical students and lecturers, the event highlighted the power of collaboration and innovation in tackling AMR, especially within local communities. The gathering showcased the commitment of students and educators to promoting health literacy in Uganda.

The event opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Okello Bazil, patron of the AMR Club, who emphasized the importance of following proper medical guidance. He reminded the audience to “complete the full course of medication and avoid self-medicating,” noting that adhering to prescribed treatments is essential for reducing risks like drug resistance.

The AFHEG Foundation CEO, Phillip Andrew Mwebaza, addresses participants on the use of games in health education.

Phillip Mwebaza, CEO of AFHEG Foundation, then introduced the Superbugs Clash board game, an interactive tool designed by AFHEG to raise awareness about antimicrobial resistance through gamified learning. He explained how the game educates players on the dangers of improper antibiotic use, encouraging students to share their knowledge with family and friends to foster a health-literate community. He further emphasized the transformative impact that youth-led health education can have in Uganda, where doctor-patient ratios are critically low.

The event included lively musical breaks, during which students performed songs about AMR, adding creativity to the learning experience and enhancing the impact of public health education.

Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve and become resistant to the medicines that were once effective in treating infections. This makes common treatments like antibiotics less effective or even useless, leading to longer illnesses, higher medical costs, and increased mortality. Addressing AMR requires public awareness and strict adherence to prescribed treatments, as the AFHEG Foundation and King Ceasor University are demonstrating through education and innovative community initiatives.

Through initiatives like the AMR Club and the Superbugs Clash game, both organizations are paving the way for a healthier, informed future, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in health education and the need for comprehensive approaches to tackle antimicrobial resistance effectively.

AFHEG collaboration at Africa Climate Change and Health Week

AFHEG collaboration at The Africa Climate Change and Health Week

The Africa Climate Change and Health Week 2024 was a significant event that fostered collaboration between the AFHEG Foundation and Digital Health Africa (DHA).

It brought together key stakeholders to tackle the urgent challenges that climate change poses to public health across the continent. This gathering provided a platform for dynamic discussions, allowing experts and advocates to share insights and strategies aimed at promoting climate resilience and health equity in Africa.

Through their partnership, DHA and the AFHEG Foundation mobilized a diverse range of participants and organizations, amplifying the event’s reach and impact. The AFHEG Foundation played a crucial role by officially endorsing the initiative, leveraging its extensive network to encourage broad participation, and advocating for the event’s objectives through strategic social media outreach, reaching over 5,000 people across platforms like LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, with DHA providing promotional materials.

By championing health literacy, the AFHEG Foundation emphasized the importance of equipping communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and respond to the health implications of climate change.

Phillip Mwebaza, the founder of the AFHEG Foundation, delivered a powerful keynote address that emphasized the urgent health challenges posed by climate change. He articulated how rising temperatures, extreme weather, and shifting disease patterns disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.

“We must integrate health considerations into climate policies and empower communities to become active participants in creating solutions,” he remarked, highlighting the need for informed citizen engagement in climate action.

His message resonated deeply with participants, as he urged policymakers to prioritize health in climate adaptation strategies. “The time for action is now; we can no longer afford to view health and climate as separate entities,” Phillip stated, reinforcing the interconnectedness of these critical issues.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers: Mirna Hussein, Technical Digital Advisor, OHDAA at GIZ; Noor Sheikh, Founder, NOFMA_KE; Marieta Liebenberg, Healthcare Consultant, The Pan African Health Informatics Association (HELINA); and Erik Vermeulen, Global Business Consultant, The Pan African Health Informatics Association (HELINA). Their contributions enriched the discussions and highlighted various perspectives on addressing the health impacts of climate change.

The outcomes of the week were significant, fostering new collaborations and a shared commitment to integrating health considerations into climate policies. “We must work together to develop effective strategies that reflect the realities on the ground and support our most vulnerable populations,” Phillip urged, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among governments, NGOs, and local communities.

Understanding the intersection of climate and health is essential for safeguarding the well-being of populations, particularly in vulnerable regions. Climate change exacerbates existing health challenges, leading to increased morbidity and mortality from diseases, mental health issues, and food insecurity.

By prioritizing climate-health initiatives, we can build resilient healthcare systems that not only address current health crises but also prepare for future challenges, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

Overview of the the AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty Health Info Hub

Overview of the AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty Health Info Hub

The AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty Health Info Hub is a cutting-edge platform on climate change and health. With its focus on educating and enthusing youth, Smarty uses gamified learning to make learning about climate health both efficient and pleasurable.

By combining various educational tools and resources, Smarty aims to build health-literate communities and promote sustainable health practices.

What is Smarty?

Smarty Health Info Hub is an interactive platform by the AFHEG Foundation that provides comprehensive information on climate change and its impact on health. It is tailored specifically for students aged 10–18 and young adults aged 18–28.

The platform uses creative storytelling, games, animations, podcasts, and courses to deliver complex information in an accessible and engaging manner.

Read about the Launch of Smarty.

Features of the AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty Health Info Hub

1. Gamified Learning
Interactive Games: Smarty includes a variety of educational games that make learning about climate health fun and interactive. These games reinforce the knowledge gained from other resources on the platform.

Challenges and Quizzes: Users can test their knowledge through quizzes and challenges, which provide immediate feedback and rewards for correct answers.

2. Educational Content
Courses: The platform offers structured courses on various topics related to climate and health. These courses are designed to be comprehensive and are broken down into easy-to-understand modules.

Animations: Engaging animations explain complex concepts in a visually appealing way, making it easier for learners to grasp the material.

3. Multimedia Resources
Podcasts: Smarty features a series of podcasts where experts discuss important climate-health topics. These podcasts provide valuable insights and up-to-date information.

Videos and Infographics: Multimedia content such as videos and infographics is used to highlight key points and data, making the information more digestible.

4. Community and Collaboration
Forums and Discussion Boards: Users can participate in forums and discussion boards to share their ideas, ask questions, and collaborate with peers and experts.

Events and Webinars: The AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty health info hub regularly hosts virtual events and webinars where users can interact with experts and learn about the latest developments in climate health.

5. User-Friendly Interface
Intuitive Design: The platform is designed to be user-friendly, with easy navigation and a clean layout that enhances the learning experience.

Accessibility: Smarty is accessible on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, ensuring that users can learn anytime, anywhere.

How to Use the AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty Health Info Hub

1. Registration
Create an Account: Visit the AFHEG website and click on the Smarty section. Register by creating an account with your email address or through a social media login.

Profile Setup: Complete your profile by adding details such as your age group, interests, and learning goals. This helps tailor the content to your needs.

2. Explore the Dashboard
Dashboard Overview: After logging in, you will be directed to your dashboard. Here, you can see your progress, upcoming events, and recommended content.

Navigation: Use the navigation menu to access different sections, such as courses, games, podcasts, and forums.

3. Engage with Content
Enroll in Courses: Browse the available courses and enroll in those that interest you. Each course is divided into modules, which you can complete at your own pace.

Play Educational Games: Engage with the interactive games to reinforce your learning. Track your progress and try to beat your high scores.

Watch animations and videos: View the animations and videos to understand complex topics better. Take notes and review key points.

4. Participate in the Community
Join Discussions: Participate in forums and discussion boards. Share your insights, ask questions, and learn from others.

Attend Events: Register for upcoming webinars and virtual events. Interact with experts and expand your knowledge.

5. Track Your Progress
Achievements and Badges: Earn badges and certificates as you complete courses and participate in activities. These rewards can be displayed on your profile.

Feedback and Improvement: Use the feedback from quizzes and challenges to identify areas for improvement. Continuously work on enhancing your knowledge and skills.

The AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty health info hub offers various engaging and interactive features and makes learning an enjoyable experience.

Whether through gamified learning, multimedia resources, or community engagement, Smarty equips users with the information they need to make informed decisions and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world.

Learn more about the AFHEG Foundation’s Smarty health info hub by seeing our listing on the HundrED website

AFHEG Foundation Launches Smarty and the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School

AFHEG Foundation Launches Smarty and the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School

On April 19, 2024, the AFHEG Foundation launches Smarty Health Info Hub and the Health Defeders Club at Kasangati High School, a significant event marks a new chapter in health and climate education for the students of Kasangati and the wider community.

Smarty is a cutting-edge, web-based platform designed to engage students in learning about health and climate change through interactive and gamified content. The platform offers a variety of multimedia resources, including videos, podcasts, quizzes, and games, making learning both fun and effective.

The event kicked off with vibrant Zumba dance sessions, followed by engaging SDG games provided in collaboration with the Media-Challenge Initiative. Over 700 students from Senior One to Senior Six participated in peer sessions within their respective classes.

Some of Kasangati High School’s best dancers join the instructor to lead the students in Zumba sessions

The day concluded with the donation of 200 sanitary pads, hygiene materials, and the planting of five trees, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to both health and environmental sustainability.

The team at AFHEG together with the school administration and students planted one of the trees.

After the physical activities and lecture sessions, students were taken through an online session where they accessed and logged into the Smarty platform to explore its various features and games. Among the games available are Fight Virus, Hero Doctor, and Puzzles, alongside informative sections such as health courses, podcasts, and health explainer animations.

A student is onboarded onto the Smarty platform by Phillip Mwebaza, CEO, AFHEG Foundation.

Ukasha Ssemambo, one of the students who successfully logged into the platform, shared his experience, highlighting Hero Doctor as the most engaging game. He explained that the game requires players to assemble different parts of a doctor to solve puzzles, providing an enjoyable yet educational experience.

In his opening remarks, Phillip Mwebaza, CEO of the AFHEG Foundation, highlighted the importance of innovative educational tools in empowering the younger generation.

“I am happy that the AFHEG Foundation is launching Smarty and the Health Defenders Club today. Smarty is more than just a learning platform; it’s a step towards building a health-literate community. By making education interactive and engaging, we hope to inspire students to take active roles in promoting health and sustainability in their communities,” Mwebaza said.

In conjunction with the launch of Smarty, the AFHEG Foundation also launched the Health Defenders Club at Kasangati High School. This club will be an integral part of our health-literate community-building initiative, providing a forum for students to engage in health talks and workshops. The club empowers students to become advocates for healthier lifestyles within their schools and communities.

Some of the members of the Health Defenders Club pose for a photo moment.

Teachers at Kasangati High School expressed their enthusiasm for the platform, noting its potential to transform traditional teaching methods. “Smarty offers a fresh and exciting way to teach complex subjects. It caters to different learning styles, ensuring that every student can benefit,” one teacher commented.

The Head Teacher of Kasangati High School also shared his thoughts, encouraging students to utilize the new platform. “Smarty comes at a perfect time with the new secondary school curriculum encouraging research and self-directed learning. I urge all students to take full advantage of this innovative tool to enhance their knowledge and skills.”

Students eagerly interacted with Smarty’s content, exploring topics such as nutrition, mental health, and climate change. Their feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the platform’s engaging and user-friendly design.

The launch of Smarty at Kasangati High School is a testament to the AFHEG Foundation’s commitment to improving health literacy and climate education. By integrating technology and innovative teaching methods, Smarty aims to make learning accessible, enjoyable, and impactful for students.

As the event concluded, Phillip Mwebaza reiterated the foundation’s dedication to expanding Smarty’s reach. “This is just the beginning. We look forward to seeing Smarty make a difference in more schools and communities across the region,” he said.

The AFHEG Foundation thanks Kasangati High School for their warm reception and is excited to continue this journey towards a healthier, more informed future.

Check out Smarty; here

World AIDS Day 2023: Let Communities Lead in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS

Every year, on the 1st of December, the world unites to commemorate World AIDS Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about HIV and AIDS. This day serves as a call to action, urging communities to take a leadership role in addressing the challenges posed by this ongoing public health issue.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2023 is ‘Let communities lead,’ emphasizing the effectiveness of programs and initiatives when driven by the most impacted communities. Despite significant progress achieved through medical research, increased access to treatment and prevention, and global advocacy, critical challenges persist in achieving the proposed 2030 goals.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV remains a significant global public health concern, with some countries witnessing increasing trends in new infections that were previously on the decline. The key to progress lies in empowering communities and promoting scientific research and innovation in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care worldwide.

Key Facts:

  • HIV has claimed 40.4 million lives so far, with ongoing transmission in all countries globally.
  • An estimated 39.0 million people were living with HIV at the end of 2022, with two-thirds in the WHO African Region.
  • In 2022, 630,000 people died from HIV-related causes, and 1.3 million people acquired HIV.
  • There is no cure for HIV, but with access to effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care, it has become a manageable chronic health condition.
  • Global organizations, including WHO, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS, have aligned strategies with the SDG target of ending the HIV epidemic by 2030.

Targets for 2025:

95% of all people living with HIV should have a diagnosis.

95% of those diagnosed should be taking lifesaving antiretroviral treatment (ART).

95% of PLHIV on treatment should achieve a suppressed viral load.

In 2022, these percentages were 86%, 89%, and 93%, respectively.

Overview:

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is an infection that attacks the body’s immune system. AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is the most advanced stage of the disease. HIV targets the body’s white blood cells, weakening the immune system and making it easier to get sick with diseases like tuberculosis, infections, and some cancers.

The virus is spread through the body fluids of an infected person, including blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is not spread by casual contact like kisses, hugs, or sharing food.

HIV can be treated and prevented with antiretroviral therapy (ART), but untreated HIV can progress to AIDS, often after many years.

AFHEG Foundation stands committed to the theme of ‘Let communities lead’ in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Our call to action centers on empowering communities through education, awareness, and access to essential HIV services.

Unlocking Youth Potential: AFHEG Foundation’s Digital Health Week Twitter Space

In a virtual rendezvous that felt like a casual conversation, AFHEG Foundation and Transform Health collaborated to discuss essential topics—health, education, and a delightful surprise for the youth. Unfolding on Twitter during Digital Health Week 2023, this online gathering featured five remarkable guests sharing their insights and advice in a manner accessible to everyone.

Henry Mugenyi, a health communicator from NBS, underscored the role of media in health education. He elaborated: “Through the powerful mediums of TV and radio, we have the opportunity to serve as conduits of health education. It is our responsibility to ensure the dissemination of accurate health information, which is crucial for the well-being of everyone in our community.”

Dr. Mutunga Shadrack cautioned against self-medication, emphasizing the importance of consulting professionals. He advised:

“In matters of health, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. Self-medication can often exacerbate health conditions, and consulting a doctor is the safest route to understanding and addressing our health needs.”

Rebecca Cherop emphasized the power of teamwork among young people in creating digital health solutions. She urged:

“Collaboration among our youth is a powerful catalyst for change in the digital health landscape. Let’s harness our collective ideas, working as a unified team to craft innovative solutions that enhance health outcomes for everyone.”

Kizito Julius, addressing mental health in the digital age, reminded everyone:

“Navigating the vast sea of content on social media can be overwhelming. Prioritizing our mental well-being is crucial in this digital era. Take breaks, set boundaries, and be mindful of your mental health.”

Kevin Kasoma advocated for a positive shift in media narratives. He suggested:

“Our role in the media is not just to highlight health problems but to also showcase solutions. Positive news has the potential to significantly contribute to creating a community that is both happier and healthier.”

Phillip Mwebaza, Managing Director of the AFHEG Foundation, shared a friendly piece of advice:

“When seeking health guidance, always lean towards professionals like doctors. While friends offer support, experts provide the best advice tailored to individual health needs.”

He also teased an upcoming initiative, saying, “Smarty is designed to be a gamified platform where learning about health and climate becomes an enjoyable and engaging journey, providing comprehensive knowledge in a way that resonates with our youth.”

Understanding Diphtheria: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

Diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection, may sound like a disease of the past, but it still poses a threat to public health in certain regions.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are around 5,000 to 10,000 reported cases of diphtheria annually worldwide, making ongoing awareness and preparedness crucial.

In this health education article, we aim to provide essential information about diphtheria, its symptoms, prevention, and treatment, empowering you to protect yourself and your community.

What is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium that primarily affects the respiratory system. The infection leads to the formation of a thick gray or white coating in the throat or tonsils, potentially obstructing the airways and causing difficulty in breathing and swallowing.

How Does Diphtheria Spread?

Diphtheria spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets released during coughing or sneezing by infected individuals. Additionally, touching objects contaminated with the bacteria can contribute to transmission.

Signs and Symptoms

The early symptoms of diphtheria may resemble a common cold, making it challenging to recognize at first. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms such as fever, swollen glands in the neck, and a characteristic thick coating in the throat become more apparent. Left untreated, diphtheria can lead to severe complications and even be fatal.

Prevention through Vaccination

Prevention is the most effective approach to combat diphtheria. Routine vaccination, usually given in combination with other vaccines, has significantly reduced the incidence of diphtheria in countries with robust immunization programs. Ensuring that you and your loved ones are up-to-date with vaccinations can help protect against this dangerous infection.

Diagnosis and Early Treatment

Timely diagnosis is crucial to manage diphtheria effectively. Healthcare professionals use throat swabs and other clinical samples to detect the presence of the bacterium and its toxin. Early treatment with diphtheria antitoxin and antibiotics can help control the infection and prevent severe complications.

High-Risk Groups

While diphtheria can affect individuals of any age, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals are at higher risk. Children and the elderly are more susceptible to severe complications, underscoring the importance of vaccination and vigilance.

Understanding diphtheria is paramount in combatting this preventable disease. Vaccination, good hygiene practices, and prompt medical attention for suspected cases play a pivotal role in preventing its spread and ensuring community well-being.

By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can collectively safeguard ourselves and future generations from the threat of diphtheria.

 

Empowering Self-Care: WHO Unveils Competency Framework for Health and Care Workers

Today, on Self-Care Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled a groundbreaking resource – a competency framework – aimed at empowering health and care workers to support people’s self-care endeavors. Self-care interventions empower individuals to manage diseases, prevent illnesses, and access critical health information.

“Self-care interventions are a vital component of health systems, offering expanded options for delivering healthcare services, especially for the underserved,” stated Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and HRP at WHO, a dedicated midwife. “Health and care workers play a pivotal role in helping people understand and utilize self-care approaches and tools – whether for self-testing pregnancy, COVID-19, or HIV, managing fertility, or self-monitoring chronic health conditions. These resources aim to support them in this noble endeavor.”

Approximately 3.6 billion people, half of the global population, lack access to essential health services. WHO strongly recommends integrating self-care interventions in every country as a critical step toward achieving universal health coverage. It empowers individuals to have more control over their well-being, broadens healthcare options, and facilitates easier healthcare accessibility.

Various self-care interventions encompass self-administered contraceptives, COVID-19 and human papillomavirus (HPV) screening, HIV and other sexually transmitted infection tests, blood pressure monitoring, pregnancy and ovulation tests, and techniques to manage stress, anxiety, substance use, and mental health disorders.

Moreover, during major disruptions to national health systems, such as health emergencies, self-care interventions offer a vital alternative to the usual facility-based services.

The Self-care competency framework comprises three essential components: competency standards, a knowledge guide tailored for health and care workers, and a curriculum guide for planning and delivering education and training.

The competency standards define ten key competencies for health and care workers to facilitate self-care in their clinical practice. These competencies emphasize people-centredness, decision-making, effective communication, collaboration, evidence-informed practice, and personal conduct.

“We invite countries, health and care worker education institutions, and employers to integrate these standards into education and practice, and to invest in a competent health and care workforce capable of providing people-centred, quality, evidence-based health services,” stated Dr. Jim Campbell, Director of the Health Workforce Department at WHO.

WHO defines self-care as the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability. The new publications, jointly developed by WHO’s Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research and the Health Workforce Department, align with the implementation of WHO’s Guideline on self-care interventions first published in 2019 and updated in 2022.

This Self-Care Day, let’s celebrate the empowerment of individuals and healthcare workers in embracing self-care as a powerful tool for healthier lives and resilient communities. Together, we can foster a world where healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

About Us

AFHEG Foundation is a non-profit health organization in Uganda, that focuses on empowering young people and communities with accurate health and environmental information through creative storytelling, e-learning, and interactive gaming, enabling them to improve their quality of life while making informed decisions.

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