US Halts HIV/AIDS Funding in South Africa, Threatening Decades of Progress

The abrupt termination of USAID and PEPFAR grants could result in over 500,000 deaths and a surge in new infections, experts warn.

The US government abruptly ended funding for HIV/AIDS programs in South Africa, including those under PEPFAR, citing misalignment with US priorities.
Health experts predict over 500,000 deaths and up to 500,000 new HIV infections in the next decade due to the funding cuts.
South Africa, home to 7.8 million people living with HIV, faces a significant gap in its healthcare system as US aid previously supported 17% of the country's HIV budget.
The cuts have halted critical services, including HIV vaccine trials and access to anti-retroviral treatments for 5.5 million people.
South African officials have pledged to address the funding gap, with President Ramaphosa and health advocates emphasizing the need for urgent solutions to sustain life-saving programs.