Lesotho’s Health Minister Says Country Can Manage Without U.S. HIV Funding But Jobs Are Already Being Lost
Lesotho’s Health Minister, Selibe Mochoboroane, says the country can handle the loss of U.S. funding for its HIV programs but the reality on the ground is already looking grim.
Over 800 health workers have lost their jobs, and access to HIV tests and medication is shrinking fast. The U.S. was set to provide R1.2 billion in funding for 2025, but a review ordered by President Trump has put that on hold. Mochoboroane insists the government only needs an extra R181 million to make up for the shortfall, but critics aren’t convinced.
Lesotho has been heavily reliant on the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has now paused or ended about 72% of its support to the country. This has forced the closure of many testing centers and left people scrambling to find self-test kits at pharmacies.
While the government is optimistic about maintaining its HIV treatment goals, concerns are growing over potential shortages of antiretroviral (ARV) medication. The World Health Organization has already flagged Lesotho as one of several countries experiencing disruptions in HIV treatment.
Meanwhile, Lesotho’s finance minister admits the funding freeze is hitting more than just health services. The government is now bracing for widespread budget cuts across multiple sectors, with decisions expected after the 90-day U.S. review period ends in April.
For now, many in Lesotho are left wondering: can the government really fill the gap, or is the country’s HIV fight about to take a massive hit?
Lesotho Braces for Life Without U.S. Health Funding And the Layoffs Have Already Started
