Back to Programs

Africa Music and Health Misinformation Response

Uganda, Nigeria, and 40+ African countries, Sub-Saharan Africa

African musicians have been instrumental in combating health misinformation during epidemics. During COVID-19, Ugandan artist Bobi Wine released songs to dispel misinformation, inspiring UNESCOs DontGoViral campaign with artists from 40+ African countries creating edutainment content. Musicians have addressed HIV/AIDS and Ebola, collaborating with academics to rebuild trust in health services. A systematic review using the RE-AIM framework found music is an effective but underutilized implementation strategy for health interventions in Africa, improving knowledge, facilitating behavioral change, and promoting mental health. Musics cultural roots and broad appeal make it powerful for reaching diverse age groups. Policy experts call for more research to quantify music-behavior change connections.

Behavior Goal

Combat health misinformation during epidemics and promote evidence-based health behaviors through culturally resonant music

Implementers & Partners

  • UNESCO
  • African Musicians
  • National Health Authorities
  • Academic Institutions

Donors & Sponsors

  • UNESCO
  • Government Health Ministries
  • International Health Organizations

Key Takeaways

  • 1Bobi Wine COVID songs inspired UNESCO DontGoViral campaign
  • 2Artists from 40+ African countries created edutainment content
  • 3Music addresses HIV/AIDS, Ebola, COVID misinformation
  • 4RE-AIM framework review confirms effectiveness but underutilization
  • 5Cultural roots increase reach across age groups/communities
  • 6Musicians collaborate with academics for accurate health messaging

Sources

Related Programs