Motsoaledi Assures Public: HIV/Aids Progrmmes not in Jeopardy

(The Post News)- Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has reaffirmed the stability of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS programmes following the recent withdrawal of U.S. funding through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Despite acknowledging challenges, Motsoaledi emphasized that the nation’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS remain robust and are not at risk of collapse.

“It is inconceivable that out of R46.8 billion spent by the country on the HIV/AIDS programme, the withdrawal of R7.9 billion by President Trump will immediately lead to a collapse of the entire programme,” Motsoaledi stated during a media briefing.

The minister addressed concerns over the impact of the funding cut, noting that while over 8,000 health workers previously supported by PEPFAR have lost their jobs, the government continues to employ more than 250,000 health workers dedicated to HIV/AIDS programmes. Motsoaledi also highlighted the government’s “Close the Gap” campaign, which has successfully initiated antiretroviral treatment for over 520,000 new patients this year, aiming to reach 1.1 million by the end of 2025.

While acknowledging a 21% decline in viral load testing—a critical measure of treatment efficacy—Motsoaledi assured that steps are being taken to address these challenges. He emphasized the government’s commitment to sustaining and strengthening HIV/AIDS initiatives, stating, “We must put it categorically clear that under no circumstances will we allow this massive work performed over more than a decade to collapse and go up in smoke.”

Activists and healthcare professionals have expressed concerns over the funding cuts, urging the government to secure alternative resources to maintain the momentum in combating HIV/AIDS. Motsoaledi acknowledged these concerns and affirmed ongoing efforts to engage with international donors and the National Treasury to bridge the funding gap.

South Africa continues to bear the highest global burden of HIV, with approximately 7.7 million people living with the virus. Despite the challenges posed by the withdrawal of U.S. funding, the government we resolute in its commitment to ensuring the continuity and effectiveness of its HIV/AIDS programmes.