Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
11 February 2025 | 12:04 CAT

Pepfar provides extensive funding to support HIV/Aids treatment and prevention.

The recent executive order by US President Donald Trump, halting foreign aid to South Africa, has sparked concern among various sectors. However, projects funded under the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) remain exempt—for now. This exemption, confirmed by the US Embassy in Pretoria, extends only until the end of April, leaving critical health programs in a state of uncertainty.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Health journalist Mia Malan explained, “There is a limited period of 90 days where the ban does not apply to PEPFAR-funded projects, but beyond April, the future remains unclear.” This temporary relief stems from a waiver that prioritizes life-saving initiatives, particularly those distributing HIV medication. However, no South African project has yet received official confirmation allowing them to continue operations post-April.

While the exemption offers short-term security, broader health initiatives—such as nutrition and general wellness programs—face immediate suspension under the executive order. Malan highlighted a concerning shift in how aid is being evaluated. “It’s not necessarily about how effective these projects are in achieving their goals but whether they align with Trump’s ideological stance,” she said, pointing to potential biases against initiatives supporting gender diversity and reproductive rights.

The suspension has raised significant concerns about South Africa’s ability to maintain its HIV response if PEPFAR funding ceases. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has indicated that discussions with the Finance Ministry are underway to explore contingency plans, though no definitive measures have been announced. “It’s important to note that South Africa funds the majority of its own HIV response,” Malan added. “However, PEPFAR supports around 15,000 healthcare workers—losing that funding would create a major gap.”

Beyond South Africa, the impact of the aid freeze extends to other nations reliant on US support for HIV medication. “PEPFAR operates in 14 countries, many in Southern Africa, and some are in worse positions than us because they depend entirely on US aid for antiretroviral drugs,” Malan said.

As April approaches, the uncertainty surrounding these programs raises urgent questions. Will the US government extend exemptions? And if not, can South Africa sustain its fight against HIV without this crucial funding? For now, thousands remain in limbo, awaiting clarity on what lies ahead.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Health Journalist Mia Malan here.