By Ebi Kesiena
HIV clinics across South Africa are facing unprecedented challenges following a 90-day freeze on US foreign aid, leaving thousands without essential HIV prevention and treatment services.
In Johannesburg, the OUT LGBTQ clinic has been forced to shut its doors, suspending care for 6,000 clients, while the University of the Witwatersrand’s HIV project, a key provider for sex workers, has also ceased operations.
The funding freeze affects PEPFAR, a US-led initiative that covers 17% of South Africa’s HIV budget and supports 5.5 million people on antiretroviral (ARV) treatment.
“This sudden halt is devastating,” said Dawie Nel, director of OUT, which was relying on $2 million in US funds to sustain its services until September.
The impact is widespread in South Africa, home to one of the world’s largest HIV-positive populations, and risks reversing decades of progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
While the South African government has pledged to reallocate funds, experts warn that delays could lead to undue suffering for patients and healthcare workers.
“The longer this lasts, the harder it will be to rebuild,” cautioned Craig Lasher of Population Action International.
With uncertainty surrounding humanitarian waivers, many clinics remain in limbo, waiting for clarity while thousands go without care.
