The National AIDS Council (NAC) has assured Zimbabweans that the country has adequate stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for the 1.2 million people on antiretroviral therapy (ART), despite recent disruptions in international funding.
Concerns had risen after the United States froze aid through USAID, a move that threatened to affect critical HIV treatment programmes. The NAC’s reassurance comes as a relief to many patients who rely on consistent access to medication to manage their condition.
The funding freeze is part of broader cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and other international support channels. PEPFAR has played a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s HIV response for years, providing millions in aid to sustain treatment and prevention efforts.
With its budget reduced, health advocates had feared potential drug shortages or service disruptions that could undermine the country’s progress in HIV management.
Despite the funding uncertainty, Zimbabwe remains committed to maintaining ART services. PEPFAR has pledged US$210 million for 2024 and an additional US$200 million from October 2024 to September 2025, ensuring continued support for HIV programmes.
The NAC has emphasized that alternative measures will be put in place if necessary to sustain treatment availability, reaffirming the country’s dedication to fighting HIV/AIDS.
