Despite the decision by US President Donald Trump to stop foreign aid for development, which might affect the supply of free HIV/AIDS antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, experts remain optimistic that access to these medicines will continue.Their confidence comes from the fact that the US is not the only provider of ARV drugs. Other organizations, such as the Global Fund and the World Health Organization (WHO) partners, also contribute to the supply.

Reducing Dependence on Aid

To reduce reliance on external aid, Tanzania’s opposition parties, Chadema and ACT-Wazalendo, have suggested creating emergency policies and budget plans to fund ARVs domestically.

These recommendations followed the US administration's decision to withdraw funding from WHO and stop aid, raising concerns about the impact on countries depending on these funds.

Additionally, the aid suspension also affects ongoing US-funded projects, increasing uncertainty about health services.

Hope for ARVs Availability

Dr. Elisha Osati, a health advisor, mentioned in an interview with Mwananchi on January 29, 2025, that while the aid cut is worrying for aid-dependent countries, Tanzania may not face major shortages because ARVs come from multiple sources.

"The US is not the only provider. The Global Fund also supports HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programs, along with other WHO partners. This gives us hope," he explained.

He also noted that the decision will not only affect Africa but also US-based NGOs that fund health projects across the continent.

Dr. Osati further mentioned that there is hope that US judges may temporarily block this decision to allow time for discussions.

Suggestions to Address the Challenge

Chadema’s Parliamentary Committee for Health and Social Development chairperson, Ms. Ashura Masoud, emphasized the need for an urgent national strategy, including budgetary and policy adjustments, to ensure stable funding for HIV/AIDS treatment.

She called on Parliament to discuss the issue urgently, urging the government to present an evaluation report and a detailed strategy to manage financial gaps in all sectors.

"The President should engage leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU) to find solutions," her statement suggested.

Ms. Masoud highlighted that around 1.5 million HIV patients depend on ARV assistance, with a monthly expenditure of about Sh204 billion. The US aid cut could affect more than 50% of HIV treatment services.

She also quoted Dr. Lilian Mwakyosi, the executive director of Dare Organisation, who warned that Tanzania must prepare adequately since only 6% of the funds for HIV and AIDS programs come from the Ministry of Health’s budget and the AIDS Trust Fund (ATF).

Proposed Budget Adjustments

ACT-Wazalendo’s shadow health minister, Dr. Elizabeth Sanga, suggested that the government should cut unnecessary expenses and redirect more funds toward healthcare.

She proposed establishing a National Health Service fund using local resources like minerals and tourism to create a self-sufficient health system.

"The government should increase the health budget from 5.7% to 10% of the main budget by 2025/2026 to reduce reliance on foreign aid and improve health services," she stated.

Additionally, she encouraged the government to fast-track a system that links Tanzanians to social security and offers health insurance for all. This, she said, would strengthen financial stability and ensure healthcare is accessible to everyone without discrimination.