HIV positive sex workers in several African countries say they are being forced to share life saving medication as US funding cuts reduce access to free drugs clinics and support programs Health workers and rights groups warn that this dangerous trend could reverse years of progress in the fight against HIV
The United States has long been the biggest donor to global HIV AIDS efforts through its PEPFAR program which has helped millions of people get tested and receive antiretroviral therapy But recent funding reductions and delays have hit many community clinics especially those serving vulnerable groups like sex workers
In countries like Uganda Kenya and Nigeria some women say they now take turns using limited HIV medicine or split pills to stretch supplies This is risky because it reduces the effectiveness of the drugs and can lead to drug resistance
One woman in Kampala Uganda said she has not had a full dose in weeks She relies on a friend who still has access to a clinic to share her medicine We do what we can to stay alive she said but we know this is not safe
Health workers say some clinics have run out of key medications while others have cut operating hours or laid off staff This leaves many patients with nowhere to go especially those already facing stigma and discrimination
US officials say they are reviewing PEPFAR spending and working to improve efficiency but advocates argue that funding cuts hurt the most marginalized people the most They are calling for urgent action to restore full funding and protect hard won gains against HIV
Global health experts warn that if the trend continues infection rates could rise again among high risk groups including sex workers drug users and men who have sex with men They say that cutting support now could lead to higher costs in the future
Many affected women say they feel forgotten and abandoned Some fear they will die if access to proper treatment is not restored soon
