The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has issued an emergency humanitarian waiver allowing the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to continue providing life-saving HIV treatment in low-income countries. PEPFAR supports over 20 million people living with HIV, making up two-thirds of all people receiving treatment globally. However, its funding was temporarily halted for at least 90 days following President Donald Trump’s Executive Order on Foreign Aid, leaving millions uncertain about their treatment.
With this waiver, HIV treatment will resume across 55 countries, though restrictions remain on family planning conferences, gender initiatives, and transgender surgeries. No new contracts will be signed except under separate waivers.
Global and Nigerian Impact
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) welcomed the decision, emphasizing PEPFAR’s vital role in fighting HIV. UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima stated that the waiver restores hope for those affected.
PEPFAR, with an annual budget of $6.5 billion, has saved 26 million lives since its inception. In Nigeria, where about two million people live with HIV, PEPFAR has invested over $6 billion, providing treatment and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
This waiver ensures continued access to critical HIV medication for millions worldwide.
