DON’T panic!
In these challenging times, it is crucial for the nation to remain calm and assured regarding the supply of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs.
The government’s announcement that it has sufficient stock to last for the next six months, coupled with ongoing procurement efforts to secure supplies through year-end, is a beacon of hope amid the uncertainty stemming from global aid reductions.
The recent decision by the United States to suspend certain aid programmes, particularly those impacting the crucial support for Zimbabwe’s HIV response, has understandably raised concerns among patients and stakeholders alike. With 31 percent of the nation’s ARV supply reliant on US funding, the ramifications of this funding gap could have devastating effects on thousands who depend on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for their quality of life and health stability.
The US has been a major contributor to Zimbabwe’s HIV response, mainly through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), whose operations have been scaled down due to the Executive Order issued by the US leader, Donald Trump.
The country has made significant strides in combating HIV and AIDS, practically halving HIV incidence and prevalence rates over the years. This progress is now at risk, compounded by the fact that nearly 19 000 AIDS-related deaths occur annually in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe has achieved key milestones in the response, including the reduction of both HIV incidence and prevalence over the years, as well as rapidly expanding access to antiretroviral therapy, in pursuit of the 95-95-95 targets.
With many patients having lived with HIV for over two decades, the implications of disrupted treatment extend far beyond medication—impacting families, communities, and the socio-economic fabric of the nation.
We applaud the proactive measures taken by the government to ensure continuity in ARV supply chains. However, it is imperative that both the government and its development partners explore innovative funding solutions to fill the gaps left by aid cuts. Strategies should include diversifying funding sources through mechanisms like public-private partnerships and domestic resource mobilisation, while also strengthening the capacity of the health system in the face of external aid fluctuations.
Moreover, a strategic reallocation of funds through health-related taxes could bolster the Aids Levy, enhancing the national response to this public health challenge. Ensuring that a percentage of revenue from the health levy, airtime tax, and sin tax is directed towards HIV and AIDS treatment will be crucial in achieving Universal Health Coverage as outlined in the National Health Strategy 2021-2025.
SADC member states should mobilise alternative funding through public-private partnerships and domestic resource mobilisation for critical health programmes, including HIV, TB and malaria prevention, treatment and control.
Collectively, we must work towards safeguarding the invaluable progress made in HIV treatment and control. The commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 remains a shared goal; it requires unwavering collaboration and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. Together, we can rise above these challenges and protect the health and well-being of the citizens.
