Ibanomonde Ngema, a 21-year-old South African HIV activist, has expressed concern over the recent decision by the Trump administration to halt funding for life-saving HIV medications in low-income countries.
She warns that this move could reverse significant progress made in combating the virus. Ngema, who was born with HIV, is known for her advocacy work and positive outlook on life, often sharing her experiences to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
The funding freeze has already disrupted the distribution of essential HIV treatments to clinics worldwide, jeopardizing the health of millions who rely on these medications.
Ngema’s activism has garnered international attention; notably, she took over actress Charlize Theron’s Instagram account on World AIDS Day to highlight the challenges faced by young people living with HIV.
The lady’s reaction came after the US State Department stopped the disbursement of funds from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), meant for HIV treatment in poor countries.
In a video she posted on TikTok, the 21-year-old South African HIV activist Ibanomonde Ngema said there is a need to face the challenges posed by the announcement from the US government.
In her words; “We must also face the current challenges that threaten the very progress that we have made. Global collaboration and community efforts saved my life. It is because of ART international support and global health programs that I’m here. But right now, we are at risk of losing all of that progress. USAID withdrawal from the WHO and funding cuts for PEPFAR are threatening the lives of millions of people just like me living with HIV just like me especially in countries just like ours. South Africa is heavily burdened by HIV/AIDS. South Africa has a large population of people living with HIV and PEPFAR has been a lifeline. So if these cuts go through, millions of lives could lose access to treatment.”
Watch the video below;
@ibanomonde Replying to @PhilaniMpunziMtshali #fypシ #southafricatiktok🇿🇦 #hivawareness #hiv #relatable #usaid
For a more in-depth analysis of the impact of this funding pause, you might find the following video informative: