The latest political developments in the USA are causing uncertainty worldwide: the new US administration has announced that it will severely restrict funding for USAID programmes, which also affects the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) - the most important programme in the fight against HIV/AIDS worldwide. A so-called waiver - a kind of exemption for humanitarian purposes - ensures that vital HIV treatments in 55 countries can continue for the time being, but long-term funding remains uncertain.
There is currently no direct impact on the supply of HIV medication to our patients. According to our information, there are also currently no major supply problems for HIV patients in Zimbabwe as a whole. The number of patients in our clinic is currently within normal limits and is functioning without any restrictions.
In the medium term, our Newlands Clinic is threatened with additional medication costs if the funding of HIV medication by the USA is reduced after the exemption regulation expires.
We are monitoring developments closely and hope that the supply of life-saving HIV medication to millions of people will remain guaranteed.
We will keep our patrons and all interested parties up to date on further developments.
FAQ
What is PEPFAR?
The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is the most important US programme in the fight against HIV/AIDS and provides millions of people with vital medicines.
Why is PEPFAR in danger?
The US government has announced that it will cut funding for USAID programmes. This also affects PEPFAR and jeopardises HIV treatment in many countries.
What is a waiver?
A waiver is an exceptional authorisation which, in this case, ensures that PEPFAR drugs can continue to be supplied in the short term - even though the remaining development funds have been blocked.
What impact does this have on Zimbabwe and Newlands Clinic?
There are currently no supply problems. Our clinic is operating without restrictions and the state clinics also continue to have access to HIV medication.
What happens next?
The situation remains uncertain. Long-term cuts could seriously jeopardise HIV treatment.