US aid shutdown sends shockwaves through Africa’s HIV program

The United Nations AIDS agency warns that Trump’s decision to suspend U.S. funding for Pepfar, the world’s largest AIDS control program, could lead to a drastic rise in HIV infections and deaths, potentially causing 6.3 million AIDS-related fatalities in the next five years.

With many African countries, including Nigeria, relying heavily on U.S. contributions for HIV/AIDS programs, the funding freeze has caused disruption, particularly in hospitals where medication supplies are running low. While some hope for a return of U.S. funding, countries like Nigeria are exploring alternatives, including plans to produce retroviral drugs domestically.