Cape Town – Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has rejected claims that South Africa’s HIV/AIDS programme is collapsing following the withdrawal of PEPFAR funding, initiated by the US under President Trump.
While acknowledging a R7.9 billion loss from the programme’s annual R46.8 billion budget, Motsoaledi said that the State is taking strong measures to sustain HIV treatment and prevention.
“It is inconceivable that out of R46.8 billion spent by the country on the HIV/AIDS programme, the withdrawal of R7.9 billion by [United States] President [Donald] Trump will immediately lead to a collapse of the entire programme,” the minister said.
[WATCH] Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi provides an update on South Africa’s HIV/AIDS programme following the withdrawal of U.S. PEPFAR funding. In conversation with SABC anchor Unathi Batyashe, the minister addresses the impact on healthcare services. pic.twitter.com/eDdkbtSSgF
— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 15, 2025
Despite a decline in services such as testing and monitoring — particularly affecting pregnant women, infants, and youth — government has implemented a comprehensive strategy, including weekly provincial monitoring, civil society outreach, R1 billion support from the Global Fund, and training thousands of healthcare workers.
Motsoaledi confirmed a stable antiretroviral supply, with 90% funded by the government.
He condemned misinformation and urged national unity, stressing that the programme is not collapsing but adjusting to challenges.
Key achievements cited include increased life expectancy (from 54.7 years in 2010 to 66.5 in 2024), reduced maternal mortality, and a sharp drop in HIV-positive births (from 70,000 in 2004 to 643 in 2025).
The government is also seeking further international support from partners like the Gates Foundation and the French Development Agency.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
