Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
16 February 2025 | 14:53 CAT

Uncertainty Around PEPFAR Program Puts Millions of People at Risk: MSF

Urgent action is needed in response to the alarming findings reported by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) regarding the disruption of HIV treatment programs across Southern Africa. The crisis follows the US government’s decision to suspend funding to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a move that has left thousands uncertain about continued access to life-saving medication.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Andrew Mews, Executive Director of MSF Southern Africa, expressed deep concern over the immediate impact, stating, “Although it is being called a suspension, for those in need, this is a life-or-death situation.” He highlighted that South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are among the hardest-hit nations, where programs are already shutting down, leaving patients without essential medication.

Despite US officials clarifying that certain treatments may continue until April, confusion remains. Mews noted that even with issued waivers, many healthcare providers have yet to receive funds. “The waivers are out, but invoices remain unpaid, healthcare workers stay at home, and clinics remain shuttered,” he said, warning of the escalating crisis.

South Africa, which has a well-managed HIV program, still relies on PEPFAR funding for 17% of its HIV budget. According to the country’s health minister, up to 20,000 healthcare workers could lose their jobs if the funding halt persists. Mews further pointed out that without staff, critical services such as testing and treatment linkage are blocked, and existing patients struggle to receive their regular medication supply.

The sudden funding freeze has left aid organizations scrambling, with little time to develop contingency plans. “We were shocked by the speed of this stop order,” Mews admitted, calling on international donors to step in and prevent a rollback of progress made over the past two decades. PEPFAR has saved over 25 million lives in the past 20 years, and its abrupt suspension puts millions at risk.

MSF and other aid organizations urge swift intervention to restore funding and ensure uninterrupted access to HIV treatment. “For our patients being turned away from clinics, this crisis is deeply distressing,” Mews emphasized. The global medical community now looks to alternative donors and urgent policy reversals to mitigate the disaster.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Andrew Mews, Executive Director of MSF Southern Africa here.