Funding cuts by the US have been received by organizations working on HIV/AIDS projects in Africa, leading to predictions of a significant increase in deaths. HIV and AIDS services have been affected due to these cuts, which have been implemented across various projects assisting specific groups such as orphans, pregnant women, and key populations. The withdrawal of funding could result in approximately 500,000 deaths over the next decade and the loss of jobs for thousands of individuals. Doctors and program managers highlight the severe impact of these cuts. The termination notices have been sent to organizations in countries including Malawi, Zambia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe, as well as to the joint United Nations program UNAIDS. Notably, projects funded by the President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief (Pepfar) have been particularly affected as the US government has announced cuts exceeding 90% for USAid funding and reduced overseas aid spending by $60 billion. This decision is seen as a death sentence for mothers and children, disrupts ongoing research, and halts progress in HIV vaccine and prevention drug trials. Programs that offer HIV care without stigma or legal concerns are also at risk due to these funding cuts. Organizations are calling on governments to fill the gaps left by the US withdrawal.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2025/feb/28/usaid-funding-health-development-hiv-aids-antiretroviral-mothers-lgbt-sex-workers-south-africa