The recent policy shifts in the United States serve as a wake-up call for Africa to rethink its approach to development and take charge of its own destiny. Imagine the immediate consequences if the reversal of aid for had not happened. Should Africa continue business as usual? Absolutely not. This moment signals more changes to come, and we must be prepared to safeguard the hard-earned progress made in recent decades.
Without sustained support for HIV programs, the availability and affordability of life-saving medications would be severely impacted, leaving millions at risk—including people across all social classes. Healthcare workers would be particularly vulnerable, facing increased exposure in already strained systems, further accelerating the brain drain crisis in the sector.
The ripple effects would be devastating:
- A surge in new infections as treatment access declines.
- The return of stigma and discrimination, driving cases underground.
- Higher mother-to-child transmission rates, reversing years of progress.
Beyond HIV, Africa faces inevitable realities—pandemics, climate disruptions, and socio-economic shocks. Yet, despite our continent’s vast resources, we remain dependent on external aid. It’s time for a shift.
Africa must prioritise sustainable and cost-effective solutions like community resilience—rooted in social integration, empowerment, inclusive governance, and accountability. The Africa CDC’s New Public Health Order presents a roadmap for this transformation, and we must embrace it.
The future of Africa’s health security lies in our hands. We must build systems that attract investment, not ones that rely on begging for aid. The time to act is now.