Following US aid cuts, thousands of South Africa’s most vulnerable, especially in Cape Town’s informal settlements—are struggling to access life-saving HIV medication.
Clinics report stockouts of antiretrovirals (ARVs) and long delays in treatment, particularly affecting women, children, and rural patients.
A promising twice yearly injection offering 100% protection against HIV in young women has shown success in trials.
However, rollout is limited due to funding gaps and logistical hurdles, leaving many reliant on daily oral regimens that are now harder to obtain.
South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV globally, and the aid cuts have crippled outreach programs, mobile clinics, and community health workers.
NGOs warn of a resurgence in new infections and treatment interruptions, which could reverse decades of progress.
Political Fallout:
The US aid reduction stems from a broader reassessment of foreign health spending, with critics arguing it disproportionately affects low-income countries.
South African officials are urging international donors to step in and restore funding pipelines.
(source apnews.com)
—Agencies
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