By Staff Reporter
The U.S. Embassy in Zimbabwe has urged the Zimbabwean government to take responsibility for its citizens’ healthcare.
On Tuesday, the Trump administration issued a waiver allowing the continuation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and other medical services under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). However, according to the U.S. Embassy, other programs remain on hold.
With the specifics of the waiver unclear, Zimbabweans fear it could undermine progress in the fight against HIV, including the country’s achievement of the 95-95-95 targets.
The U.S. Embassy stated that while a review of all foreign assistance programs is underway—ensuring they align with U.S. policy under the “America First” agenda—Zimbabwe must take responsibility for funding its healthcare system.
“It is time for Zimbabwe to take seriously its responsibility for the health of its people. For HIV, Zimbabwe has achieved the 95-95-95 targets,” the embassy said. “They urgently need to focus on purchasing ART and staffing clinics with nurses. They can do this.”
Since 2006, it has been through PEPFAR that over US$1.6 billion has been channeled towards the HIV fight in Zimbabwe saving millions of lives in the country.
