South African civil groups warn of dire impact as U.S. phases out HIV program funding
Summary
South African civil groups warn that cuts to U.S. funding for HIV programs will harm vulnerable groups, especially adolescent girls and women. The U.S. is ending its support through the PEPFAR program, which has funded South Africa's HIV fight for 20 years and helped save millions of lives.Key Facts
- The U.S. plans to phase out over $400 million in annual HIV program funding to South Africa by September 2025.
- South Africa has about 8 million people living with HIV, the highest number in the world.
- President Donald Trump ordered the cut in foreign aid due to political disagreements, including South Africa’s land and racial policies.
- The U.S. State Department required South African officials to condemn race-based violence as part of the conditions for continued aid.
- PEPFAR funding made up about 17% of South Africa’s HIV program budget but did not cover most HIV medication costs.
- Some local HIV programs have already closed, and around 3,000 health workers lost their jobs after funding was reduced.
- South Africa created a $45 million emergency fund to address the funding gap from the U.S. cutbacks.
- Prevention services for HIV have suffered, with focus shifting to maintaining treatment for existing patients.
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