US approves $5.88B to fight HIV globally after deep foreign aid cuts

The United States has approved a US$5.88 billion spending package to bolster the global fight against HIV. The bipartisan law aims to support millions in partner countries while keeping the response efficient and results-driven. This move comes as the US remains the largest contributor to worldwide HIV efforts, with its PEPFAR programme saving over 25 million lives since 2003.

However, the new funding follows major cuts to US foreign aid in early 2025, which paused critical health programmes and raised concerns about future support for vulnerable populations.

The newly signed package aligns with the America First Global Health Strategy. It focuses on achieving UNAIDS' 95-95-95 targets—diagnosing 95% of HIV cases, treating 95% of those diagnosed, and suppressing the virus in 95% of treated individuals by 2030. Funding will go toward bilateral HIV programmes, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS itself.

Earlier in 2025, the US government introduced sweeping changes to its foreign aid policies. These included pausing much of its development assistance, leading to the abrupt suspension of USAID activities in February and its full dissolution by July 1, 2025. The sudden shifts left many global health initiatives uncertain about future support.

Nigeria, with an estimated 2 million people living with HIV, faces particular risks. The country's healthcare spending averages just $120 per person annually, with only $30 coming from government funds. Without steady aid, millions relying on antiretroviral therapy could lose access to essential treatment.

UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima acknowledged the US commitment, thanking President Trump and Congress for their continued support. Yet, the earlier aid cuts had already disrupted services, leaving many in low-resource settings at risk of losing life-saving care.

The US$5.88 billion package reinforces American leadership in global HIV efforts. It will help sustain treatment and prevention programmes in high-burden countries like Nigeria. However, the earlier suspension of USAID and broader aid reductions mean ongoing challenges for millions who depend on consistent funding for survival.