AFHEG Foundation launches an AMR board game Superbugs Clash to revolutionize health Gamified Learning in Uganda

The AFHEG Foundation has launched Superbugs Clash Kampala Edition, a unique board game to raise awareness on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This innovative tool seeks to simplify complex health concepts, making them engaging and accessible to a wider audience, especially youth in Uganda.

In a world where traditional health education often struggles to engage diverse audiences, gamified learning emerges as a transformative solution. The African Health Grid Foundation (AFHEG) is at the forefront of this innovative approach, leveraging the power of games to simplify complex health issues and make learning not only accessible but also engaging.

Antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, arises when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites adapt to resist the medications used to treat them, leading to ineffective treatments and prolonged illness. AMR has become a global health crisis, claiming approximately 1.27 million lives every year and posing a severe threat to public health. Through Superbugs Clash, AFHEG hopes to address this issue by promoting understanding and inspiring behavioural change in Ugandan communities.

Phillip Mwebaza, the CEO of the AFHEG Foundation, emphasized the transformative impact of gamified learning in addressing such critical health challenges.

“With games like Superbugs Clash Kampala Edition, we provide an enjoyable means to communicate complex health topics, effectively breaking down comprehension barriers,” Mwebaza stated. “Our mission is to cultivate a health-literate community equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for making informed health decisions.”

The launch event drew an enthusiastic crowd of over 50 individuals, including artists, content creators, public health professionals, mental health advocates, and students. Attendees were immersed in a variety of activities, including games, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and therapeutic art sessions. These interactive formats not only showcased AFHEG’s commitment to innovative health education but also illustrated the collective dedication to immersive and holistic approaches to learning.

Emmanuel Rukundo from Keepers XR highlighted the pivotal role of VR in educational settings, stating, “By allowing participants to step into different health scenarios, VR transforms learning from passive observation to active engagement.” This hands-on experience fosters a deeper connection with health challenges, making the educational process more impactful and empowering individuals to advocate for healthier communities. The integration of VR technology into educational initiatives exemplifies the potential for innovative approaches to enhance health education, making it more memorable and effective.

Rodney Kiggundu, founder of Kiggundu Art Studio, also emphasized the broader impact of creative innovations like Superbugs Clash. He noted that art forms, including therapeutic and digital art, are vital avenues for raising awareness about health issues.

“Art has the power to connect with people on a deeper level, making health information more relatable and engaging,” Kiggundu remarked.

Caroline Tusabe, co-founder of the AFHEG Foundation, reiterated the organization’s commitment to spreading health information through innovative educational strategies. “We are dedicated to ensuring that vital health information reaches as many people as possible, and gamified learning is a key component of this mission,” she stated.

Through collaborative efforts and groundbreaking approaches, organizations like AFHEG are showcasing the potential of creative educational initiatives to address pressing health challenges. AFHEG aims to inspire individuals to adopt sustainable health behaviours by harnessing the power of gamified learning and innovative storytelling, ultimately fostering a resilient and proactive community prepared to tackle health challenges head-on. As more games and educational tools are developed, the future of health education looks brighter, offering new avenues for engagement and empowerment in the quest for healthier futures.