PRETORIA – The United States government has announced plans to phase out HIV funding support to South Africa, raising concerns over the future of HIV programmes in the country.
The decision effects support provided through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has been a major pillar of South Africa’s HIV response.
US officials on Saturday said the phased withdrawal is linked to policy disagreements and diplomatic tensions between Washington and Pretoria.
South Africa has more than eight million people living with HIV, the highest number globally.
Although the South African government funds most antiretroviral medicines, experts warn that reduced donor support could affect prevention services, community programmes and healthcare workers.
The funding decision comes amid worsening diplomatic relations between the two countries over domestic and foreign policy issues.
Health advocates have expressed concern that the move could place additional pressure on South Africa’s health system.
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