Additional Context: This data was collected in September 2025 by a global health expert associated with Physicians for Human Rights, or PHR, documenting the lived experiences of individuals impacted by the transitions in foreign aid, particularly U.S. government funding for HIV/AIDS services. All narrators were recontacted in March 2026 to validate quotes and provide updates.

Staffing cuts and reduced reach in communities due to last-mile program closures have threatened the ability of the broader health system to maintain coverage of services such as blood pressure testing, body mass index and diabetes counseling, immunizations and other routine preventive medicine.

Devex Researcher Note: Although U.S. funds implemented through PEPFAR only made up 17% of the HIV response budget in South Africa, 48% of healt hcare facilities reported disruptions following the cuts as of October 2025, according to Ritshizde. Increased waiting times at clinics have been reported, affecting all services provided. Many mobile health unit services were suspended following U.S. cuts. Integrated HIV services including mobile health units has been proven to be an entry point for non-communicable disease screening.

Source: Physicians for Human Rights