Trump cuts South Africa’s HIV funding over farmer safety and policy disputes

The Trump administration confirmed Friday it will phase out the multibillion-dollar PEPFAR program that provides HIV treatment in South Africa.

US officials cited the South African government's failure to protect white farmers and resolve land reform disputes as primary reasons for the cut. This decision targets the country with the world’s largest HIV population, where over eight million people currently require lifelong medical support. Supporters of the move argue it forces South Africa toward "self-reliance," while critics warn the withdrawal could trigger a massive public health catastrophe.

The State Department plans to issue a formal notification to South African leaders early next week regarding the exit timeline.