U.S. Suspends HIV Funding for Sierra Leone and Other Nations

February 4, 2025

The United States government has halted financial support for HIV treatment programs in Sierra Leone and other developing nations following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.

This decision has resulted in a 90-day suspension of disbursements from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a major U.S. initiative that provides HIV/AIDS treatment worldwide. With an annual budget of $6.5 billion, PEPFAR has supported over 20.6 million people and saved an estimated 26 million lives.

Sierra Leone has been a key beneficiary of PEPFAR, particularly in efforts to combat HIV and tuberculosis. In 2021, nearly 50,000 Sierra Leoneans participated in PEPFAR programs, including thousands of people receiving antiretroviral treatment.

The suspension, which could last at least three months, has sparked concerns among public health experts. Some fear the Trump administration may take further steps to limit or even terminate the program.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department defended the decision, stating that the government aims to reassess foreign aid spending to ensure it aligns with American interests.

With approximately 77,000 people living with HIV in Sierra Leone, the funding freeze could have significant consequences for the country’s healthcare system and ongoing treatment programs.