South Africa’s Treasury has allocated R753.5 m (42.7M USD) to plug gaps in HIV/AIDS programmes following Pepfar funding cuts, while new research investments and health infrastructure projects are underway.
South Africa’s National Treasury has committed R753.5 million to mitigate the impact of the US-funded PEPFAR programme cuts, which threatened the country’s world-leading HIV/AIDS response. The emergency funds will support provincial service delivery, research, and medicine distribution. Additionally, the Gates Foundation and Wellcome Trust pledged R200 million each for HIV and TB research, contingent on matched funding from the government. The SA Medical Research Council will oversee these funds, aiming to sustain critical health research despite the funding shortfall.
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi also prioritised infrastructure improvements, highlighting hospital projects under construction across provinces, including Limpopo, Free State, and Eastern Cape. However, he acknowledged that public health funding remains insufficient, prompting discussions with local and international financiers for additional support.
While government efforts continue, activists warn that the PEPFAR cuts have led to clinic closures, job losses, and reduced HIV testing and treatment rates. Civil society has urged greater transparency and data sharing to fully assess the impact and mobilise further resources.
