Future Families, a non-profit organization based in South Africa, has been forced to halt all activities due to a pause in foreign aid from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This pause, initiated by executive orders from U.S. President Donald Trump, has had a devastating impact on vital health services provided by NGOs worldwide.
Casey Nyathela, a programme manager at Future Families, shared that 43 out of their 59 staff members in Limpopo have been placed on unpaid leave, bringing all activities to a standstill. The organization is known for providing trauma containment for victims of gender-based violence, referrals for HIV prevention services, emergency transport funds, and long-term psychosocial support. They also offer social and reproductive health literacy, financial literacy, and mentorship for adolescents and young people.
One key intervention that has been affected by the funding pause is peer counseling, which plays a crucial role in the fight against HIV. Kamo Diba, a beneficiary of peer counseling services, expressed concern over the absence of peer educators and counselors at government-owned healthcare facilities. Thabang, a peer educator, shared his disappointment at being suddenly told to stop work, leaving many individuals who rely on his support for ART adherence in a precarious situation.
Nonhlanhla Mazaleni, founder of Tholulwazi Phakathi, highlighted the strain on healthcare facilities due to the loss of USAID-funded services, resulting in overcrowded clinics and increased workloads for existing staff members. The uncertainty surrounding the resumption of services has left many workers unsure about their future job security and financial stability.
Although the U.S. government has issued a waiver to allow for the continuation of humanitarian aid, including life-saving medicines, organizations like Future Families have yet to receive any communication from their funders. The organization, supported by the Networking HIV and AIDS Community of Southern Africa (NACOSA), remains in limbo as they await further guidance on resuming their activities.
In response to the crisis, the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure that crucial health services are not compromised by the withdrawal of U.S. aid. Local health advocacy groups have called for a plan to reduce reliance on foreign assistance awards in the future, urging the government to step up and fill the funding gap left by the pause in foreign aid.
With PEPFAR funding accounting for 17% of South Africa’s HIV budget, the country faces significant challenges in maintaining essential services for the 271,606 individuals in 27 districts funded by PEPFAR. Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has emphasized the country’s commitment to HIV programs, with 76% of funding coming from South Africa’s own resources. As organizations like Future Families navigate the uncertainty caused by the funding pause, the government’s role in ensuring continuity of care for vulnerable populations remains crucial. The recent decision to withdraw 15 145 people from the government’s medical aid scheme has raised concerns about the impact it will have on those affected. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has acknowledged that the biggest challenges will be related to salaries and operational costs, which are currently being discussed with the National Treasury.
Despite the withdrawal, the government has assured that it will continue to purchase antiretroviral and TB medication using its own funds, contributions from private medical aid schemes, and financial support from the Global Fund. Motsoaledi emphasized the importance of individuals on antiretroviral and TB medication to continue their treatment, as stopping could lead to serious health complications.
It is essential for those affected by the withdrawal to seek alternative healthcare options and to ensure that they have access to the necessary medication and treatment. The government is working to mitigate the impact of the withdrawal and to provide support to those in need.
It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about any changes in their healthcare coverage and to seek assistance from healthcare providers or government agencies if needed. By staying proactive and informed, those affected can navigate this challenging situation and continue to receive the care and support they require.
