Motsoaledi Rejects Claims PEPFAR Exit Will Cripple Government Health Programmes
CAPE TOWN – Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has firmly rejected claims that the withdrawal of United States funding through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) will result in the collapse of South Africa’s public HIV/AIDS treatment initiatives.
The concerns come after former U.S. President Donald Trump ended PEPFAR support for South Africa in January. The funding was expected to contribute approximately R7.9 billion in 2025, aiding critical HIV/AIDS treatment and support services in eight provinces.
The decision has sparked concern among healthcare professionals, activists, and members of Parliament. Many have criticized Motsoaledi for not moving swiftly enough to secure alternative funding or to prevent potential disruptions to care—particularly for vulnerable communities relying on PEPFAR-funded clinics.
At a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday, Motsoaledi pushed back strongly, calling the media coverage and public speculation surrounding the issue exaggerated and misinformed.
“The idea that the PEPFAR withdrawal will lead to the immediate collapse of our national HIV/AIDS programme is both misleading and irresponsible,” said Motsoaledi. “It is inconceivable that out of the R6.8 billion the country already allocates to HIV treatment each year, the absence of R7.9 billion would bring the entire system to its knees.”
He reassured the public that no patients would be left behind, and that the Department of Health had put contingency plans in place well in advance of the funding cut. This includes transferring patient care responsibilities and medical files from PEPFAR-supported facilities to operational government clinics to ensure seamless access to antiretroviral therapy (ART).
According to Motsoaledi, the shift away from donor dependence has long been part of South Africa’s public health policy. The country has gradually taken more responsibility for funding its own treatment programmes, preparing for scenarios where international aid might be reduced or discontinued.
“While PEPFAR has played a vital role, we have always planned for sustainability. South Africa must lead its own public health response,” he said.
Still, advocacy groups and public health experts caution that the PEPFAR withdrawal could have a real impact on service delivery, especially in rural areas. Some clinics previously funded by the programme may face staffing shortages, reduced outreach capacity, and logistical challenges that could affect testing, treatment, and counselling services.
Motsoaledi acknowledged these concerns but stressed that the government is actively working with provinces to prevent any breakdown in care. He confirmed that discussions are underway to absorb PEPFAR-supported personnel into the public system where feasible, while also re-allocating resources to areas most at risk of service disruption.
Motsoaledi reassures South Africans that HIV response remains strong despite loss of US funding
“This is a transition—not a collapse,” said Motsoaledi. “Yes, there will be adjustments, but our healthcare system is resilient, and we will adapt.”
He also called for unity, urging civil society, healthcare professionals, and the media to collaborate with the Department of Health during this transitional period rather than fuelling panic.
Further details on the department’s recovery strategy, including revised budgets and staffing plans, are expected to be presented to Parliament in the coming week.
As South Africa continues to battle one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world—with nearly 8 million people living with HIV—ensuring consistent access to treatment and prevention services remains a national priority.
Motsoaledi concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS with or without international funding:
“We’ve come a long way in this fight. Our progress won’t be undone by this funding cut. We will protect the gains we’ve made, and we will keep moving forward.”
The Department of Health will continue to monitor developments closely, with Motsoaledi at the helm, determined to steer the country’s HIV/AIDS programme through this critical transition period.
Source- EWN
