Officials say the country has already prepared for this scenario, following funding freezes and the cancellation of US Agency for International Development grants last year. A self-reliance strategy is now being implemented to ensure continuity of care.
The department emphasised that SA’s HIV response is largely domestically funded, with approximately 90% of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment programmes financed by government resources.
Health Department Spokesperson Foster Mohale said the public healthcare system remains fully operational and accessible. “Public health facilities remain accessible to all clients, including those who used to receive their health services from PEPFAR-funded clinics,” Mohale said.
Mohale stressed that there is no immediate risk to patients currently receiving life-saving treatment and urged the public to remain calm.
The shift away from donor dependence forms part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening long-term sustainability in public health programmes. Officials say this approach is intended to reduce vulnerability to external funding changes while maintaining service delivery.
The department added that existing infrastructure and supply chains are capable of supporting continued distribution of ARVs across the country. Patients who previously relied on externally funded clinics are being integrated into the public health system.
Health authorities also indicated that discussions around global HIV and AIDS funding will continue at an international level. “The issue of HIV and AIDS response funding will form part of the United Nations High-Level Meeting agenda scheduled for June 22 and June 23,” Mohale said.
–ChannelAfrica–
