The United States government has announced plans to stop funding HIV and Aids programmes in South Africa, a move that could significantly impact the country’s fight against the virus. South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV in the world, with more than eight million affected.

According to the US State Department, the decision appears to be linked to concerns over South Africa’s alleged failure to protect the white-minority Afrikaner community, claims that the South African government has repeatedly denied.

South Africa’s Health Ministry said it had not yet received official notification regarding the funding withdrawal but noted that it has been preparing for greater financial independence. The ministry stated that it has “long been working on a self-reliance plan” to sustain HIV treatment and prevention programmes.

Until 2025, the United States supported South Africa’s HIV response through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), providing approximately $400 million annually. The programme has played a major role in funding treatment, testing, and prevention initiatives across the country.

Relations between Washington and Pretoria have become increasingly strained since President Donald Trump returned to office, with disagreements on several political and diplomatic issues contributing to growing tensions between the two nations.

The withdrawal of US support raises concerns about the future of HIV services in South Africa, although health officials maintain that preparations are underway to reduce dependence on foreign aid and strengthen domestic funding mechanisms.