KEY POINTS
- Truck-stop clinics have been forced to shut down after U.S. aid cuts.
- Parliament is urging the government to find alternative funding sources.
- Over 1.2 million Zimbabweans depend on U.S.-funded HIV programs.
A funding shortfall from the United States has forced the temporary closure of truck-stop clinics across Zimbabwe, raising concerns about a potential spike in HIV infections.
The clinics operating in high-volume locations have provided essential HIV prevention services, testing and treatment access to long-distance truck drivers and sex workers.
The funding cuts are a result of U.S. President Donald Trump’s America First policy, which has led to a reduction in foreign aid programs, including those supporting HIV/AIDS initiatives in Zimbabwe.
Without financial support, organizations like Population Solutions for Health (PSH) New Start Centres have suspended services for patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and those seeking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) refills.
According to New Zimbabwe, this disruption puts thousands of Zimbabweans at risk, as many rely on these clinics for consistent HIV treatment and prevention.
Parliament calls for urgent action and alternative funding
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Hwange West Member of Parliament Vusumuzi Moyo called on the Ministry of Health to take immediate action and explore alternative funding sources.
Moyo warned that insufficient continuing healthcare funding will impact access for truck drivers and sex workers to basic HIV treatment services, thereby increasing unidentified infected cases and treatment noncompliance.
“With these funding cuts, we are facing a situation where high HIV prevalence rates may return, and access to care will be significantly reduced,” Moyo said.
“The government must act swiftly to secure new funding models to ensure that the most vulnerable populations continue receiving the lifesaving support they need.”
His concerns share apprehensions many healthcare professionals have, that funding shortages could lead to a regression of the HIV/AIDS response achievements made in Zimbabwe.
Millions rely on U.S.-funded HIV programs
The funding cuts generate major consequences that extends beyond truck-stop clinics.
More than 1.2 million Zimbabweans receive support from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief under PEPFAR, through its distribution of training, technical support and essential medical supplies to over 1,600 public hospitals and clinics nationwide.
With U.S. support for HIV/AIDS programs dwindling, there are fears that Zimbabwe’s healthcare system may struggle to fill the gap.
Expert opinions stress that both improved local healthcare spending and forming alliances with different donors represent vital approaches for HIV/AIDS progress sustainability.
Health professionals urge the government to develop an extensive funding plan, because delayed action will result in a public health emergency.
