The abrupt suspension of critical funding from the United States has raised alarm over the potential reversal of decades of progress in global health efforts, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Among the most affected programs is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has seen immediate disruptions in HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services across more than 50 countries.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), has warned that these cuts could undo 20 years of advancements in combating HIV, with devastating consequences for millions.
“The suspension of most funding to PEPFAR caused an immediate stop to HIV testing and prevention services,” Dr. Tedros stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The potential impact of these disruptions is dire, with WHO projections indicating that over 10 million new HIV cases and 3 million additional deaths could occur more than triple the number of HIV-related fatalities recorded last year.
“In more than 50 countries, these disruptions could undo 20 years of progress, leading to more than 10 million additional cases of HIV and 3 million related deaths,” Dr. Tedros cautioned.
He urged urgent dialogue between the US government and affected nations to explore sustainable solutions that safeguard public health and prevent further loss of life. Dr. Tedros also called on other global donors and governments to step up their contributions in response to the crisis.
Meanwhile, in Uganda, a separate health scandal has sparked outrage following allegations of illegal sales of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs at Ishaka Adventist Hospital. A viral social media post claimed that a patient was charged Shs70,000 per ARV tablet, triggering demands for immediate intervention.
UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima condemned the alleged practice, describing it as part of a troubling trend in which wealthier individuals bribe health workers to hoard free HIV medicines, exacerbating shortages and endangering vulnerable patients.
“We are not going to allow rich people to bribe health workers and buy up FREE HIV medicines (ARVs) to stock up for themselves, cause unnecessary shortages, and leave poor and vulnerable people to die. NO!” Byanyima stated on X, calling on Uganda’s Ministry of Health to take swift action.