KEY POINTS
- Zimbabwe has secured ARV supplies despite funding cuts from international donors.
- PEPFAR and USAID cuts leave a major gap in HIV program funding.
- The government is mobilizing domestic resources to sustain healthcare programs.
Zimbabwe’s National AIDS Council (NAC) has assured citizens that the supply of antiretroviral (ARV) medicines will remain uninterrupted despite recent funding cuts from international donors.
Speaking on the issue, NAC Chief Executive Officer Dr. Bernard Madzima stated that the country currently has sufficient stockpiles of ARVs and laboratory commodities, with a three-month reserve in place.
According to ZBC News, he confirmed that while the United States government’s executive order has affected funding, steps have already been taken to prevent any shortages.
“We have mobilized domestic resources, particularly through the AIDS levy, to ensure that supply chain management is not disrupted,” Dr. Madzima explained.
“We are preparing for the impact of the 90-day stop order from the U.S. government, but we are confident that our measures will sustain ARV availability beyond June.”
Impact of funding cuts on Zimbabwe’s HIV program
Zimbabwe has long relied on support from PEPFAR and USAID, which together contribute approximately $40 million toward ARV procurement and other HIV-related programs.
These funds also cover support for community health workers and civic society organizations that play a critical role in HIV care.
Dr. Madzima acknowledged the significant impact of these funding cuts but reiterated the government’s commitment to preventing disruptions. “The reduction in international aid leaves a big gap, but we must ensure that no patient is left without medication,” he said.
To mitigate this challenge, Treasury funds, the AIDS levy, and other domestic revenue sources will be redirected to cover the shortfall.
The health levy, airtime tax, and sin tax, all of which contribute to Zimbabwe’s health financing strategy, are expected to help sustain ARV distribution across the country.
Universal Health Coverage and long-term solutions
Zimbabwe’s health financing strategy is designed to increase access to healthcare while ensuring sustainability.
The government pursues Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the National Health Strategy 2021-2025, by allocating higher budgets to healthcare services.
Dr. Madzima emphasized that efforts are being made to guarantee that every hospital and health facility in Zimbabwe continues offering ARVs.
“There will be no disruption in ARV supply, and we are strengthening our domestic funding sources to make sure that access to medication is never compromised,” he assured.
The Zimbabwean government is also considering additional reforms, such as the introduction of a National Health Insurance Scheme, to further secure long-term funding for HIV treatment and broader health services.
