SA Health Minister: ‘Trump Owes Us Nothing’
South Africa’s Health Minister, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, addressed the National Assembly, stating that the United States does not owe the country any financial support after President Donald Trump decided to cut HIV/AIDS funding. “Trump doesn’t owe South Africa a cent,” he asserted.
Motsoaledi urged South Africa to take charge of the crisis resulting from Trump’s decision to withdraw $440 million from the country’s antiretroviral treatment program. This cut threatens the jobs of around 15,000 healthcare workers and could jeopardize the treatment program itself. He emphasized the need for South Africa to be self-reliant.
During a heated debate in Parliament, initiated by Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Motsoaledi mentioned ongoing discussions with various international and local organizations to help fill the funding gap.
He highlighted efforts with groups like the Clinton Health Access Initiative and the Gates Foundation, stating, “No government or foundation is waiting for Trump to act before committing funds.”
Motsoaledi also discussed the impact of these cuts on HIV/AIDS programs, noting that South Africa acquires 90% of its antiretroviral medicines, with Global Fund covering the rest.
Shifting focus to the National Health Insurance, he called for a review of subsidies for private healthcare, questioning the fairness of continuing these during tough times.
Malema criticized the US for its funding cuts, suggesting the decision was influenced by South Africa’s support for Palestine. He described the situation as retaliation from Israel and warned against right-wing groups seeking foreign funds to establish independent states, labeling it an imperialist agenda.
He concluded by reaffirming his party’s commitment to land reform, stating, “We will expropriate land without compensation, whether they like it or not.”
IOL
