Department of Health assured Parliament that South Africa’s antiretroviral (ARV) supply remains stable despite USAID’s decision to freeze funding for health organisations nationwide.
Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) MP Nompumelelo Mhlongo raised concerns in Parliament about the impact of the funding cut on vulnerable communities. In response, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi confirmed that the majority of ARV procurement relies on domestic resources.
“South Africa funds 90% of its ARV supply, while the Global Fund covers the remaining 10%, which remains unaffected by USAID’s decision,” Motsoaledi said. He also highlighted that existing contracts with ARV suppliers and electronic monitoring systems at clinics and hospitals ensure consistent stock levels.
Government Assures ARV Supply Despites USAID Funding Withdrawal
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The situation escalated on Thursday when USAID formally notified NGOs of a permanent funding termination, following initial stop-work orders. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously issued waivers to sustain life-saving therapy and prevent vertical transmission, but within 24 hours, implementing partners received final termination notices.
Motsoaledi, addressing the Parliamentary Health Portfolio Committee, said the US government launched a 90-day review to evaluate whether its global HIV/AIDS programme aligns with American values and objectives.
“The assessment is their initiative, not ours. They want to determine if their funding worldwide reflects their beliefs,” he stated. However, diplomatic discussions remain complex due to the absence of a US ambassador in South Africa, leaving only a chargé d’affaires in place.
Motsoaledi assured Parliament that existing systems would mitigate the impact of the funding loss.
“Many provinces have standard stock replenishment calculations. The Centralised Chronic Medicines Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) programme remains operational, and we are taking measures to prevent disruptions,” he said.
He also confirmed that the government is engaging with local and international donors and working with provincial departments and National Treasury to prepare for various funding scenarios.
Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale acknowledged potential consequences but dismissed concerns over ARV shortages.
“It will have an impact, but not a major one regarding treatment,” Mohale said. “The biggest concern is for those employed through USAID funding.” He urged affected patients to visit public clinics for continued treatment, reassuring that the government foresees no immediate ARV shortages.
Government Assures ARV Supply Despites USAID Funding Withdrawal
While the department awaits official confirmation of the funding freeze, health experts warn of severe long-term consequences. During a Change Organisation conference, Professor Linda-Gail Bekker of the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation presented models predicting devastating outcomes if the funding gap remains unaddressed.
“Over a decade, while short-term costs might decrease, we will ultimately lose money and progress. More than half a million preventable deaths and up to 500,000 new infections could occur,” she warned.
Dr Angelique Coetzee, vice-chairperson of the Unity Forum for Family Practitioners, highlighted job losses and disruptions to HIV research as immediate concerns. She also noted logistical challenges for patients without access to transport.
“We won’t see an immediate spike in HIV cases, but within months, infections will likely increase,” she cautioned. Coetzee expressed doubt about the government’s preparedness, calling for greater responsibility.
“The Department of Health must step up and support vulnerable communities,” she urged. Mohale confirmed that the government will announce contingency plans in due course.
“The department will communicate its strategy at the appropriate time,” he said.
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