Cape Town — Several political parties have expressed its disappointment with the US government’s decision to halt the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (PEPFAR) funding for HIV/AIDS treatment in South Africa.
US President Donald Trump issued an executive order to cut foreign funding for clinics and hospitals in low-income countries, with South Africa among the countries affected. South Africa receives R8 million through PEPFAR funding and now faces significant challenges.
Among the parties who expressed concerns with the funding is the Democratic Alliance (DA), a member of the Government of National Unity (GNU). The party called on the US government to reconsider its decision, a statement read.
“The sudden halt of funding has resulted in the suspension of critical health support services by implementing agencies across the country, on which millions of South Africans rely,” the DA’s Emma Louise Powell said.
The part said PEPFAR have played a crucial role in South Africa’s fight against HIV/AIDS since 2003, which has saved millions of lives and boosted South Africa’s public health infrastructure.
This is how significant PEPFAR is in SA. 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/rQtF0x4Fl2
— Megan S. (@SimplyMegszcpt) January 29, 2025
“The DA urges the US government to recognise that every dollar spent on global health initiatives, such as PEPFAR directly strengthens international security, and bolsters America’s global influence. A sudden cessation of this magnitude may ultimately compromise US national interests in the region,” Powell said,
The party called on US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to reinstate funding whilst a a broader programmatic review is underway, saying millions of lives are at risk.
Mmusi Maimane’s BuildOne South Africa (BOSA) issued a statement that echoed the DA’s sentiments and said it would petition trump to reverse the decision and reaffirm the US’ commitment to global health.
“This decision is a betrayal of the shared values of compassion and partnership between our nations,” Maimane said.
“HIV/AIDS is not just a health issue; it is a social justice issue that affects the most vulnerable among us. A pause in funding will have devastating consequences for millions of South Africans who rely on these programs for survival,” he added.
BOSA urged South Africans, civil society organisations and public health advocates to unite in urging the US government to reconsider.
The party said the fight against HIV/AIDS was not over and international partnerships were key to achieving an AIDS-free generation.
“BOSA will also work with South African and international organizations to amplify this message and safeguard the progress made in combating HIV/AIDS over the last two decades,” BOSA spokesperson, Roger Solomons said.
❗️[Media Statement]❗️Build One South Africa Calls on US President Donald Trump to Reverse Decision to Pause PEPFAR Funding to South Africa#BuildOneSA pic.twitter.com/Gz5RAqEseW
— BOSA (@BuildOneSA) January 29, 2025
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
