Build One South Africa (BOSA) is deeply concerned about the United States Government’s decision to pause over $400 million in PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) funding allocated to HIV/AIDS programs in South Africa.
This decision threatens to undermine critical efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, which continues to pose a significant health challenge in our country and across the African continent.
In response, BOSA will formally petition US President Donald Trump through his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to reverse this decision and reaffirm the United States’ commitment to global health and humanitarian assistance.
South Africa is home to the largest HIV epidemic in the world, with over 8 million people living with HIV. PEPFAR funding has been instrumental in providing life-saving antiretroviral treatment, preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, and supporting community-based healthcare systems that are the backbone of the country’s HIV/AIDS response.
“This decision is a betrayal of the shared values of compassion and partnership between our nations,” said BOSA Leader Mmusi Maimane. “HIV/AIDS is not just a health issue; it is a social justice issue that affects the most vulnerable among us. A pause in funding will have devastating consequences for millions of South Africans who rely on these programs for survival.”
BOSA calls on all South Africans, civil society organisations, and public health advocates to unite in urging the US Government to reconsider its stance.
The fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over, and sustained international partnerships are essential to achieving an AIDS-free generation.
A formal petition will be delivered to the US Embassy in Pretoria and shared with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other key stakeholders in Washington, D.C.
BOSA will also work with South African and international organizations to amplify this message and safeguard the progress made in combating HIV/AIDS over the last two decades.
Media Statement by
Roger Solomons: BOSA Acting Spokesperson
Wednesday, 29 January 2025
Media Enquiries:
Roger Solomons – BOSA Acting Spokesperson – 072 299 3551