Over the past two decades, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, or PEPFAR has been a key partner in driving the expansion of HIV services, resulting in significant achievements.
“It almost looked impossible when we started this journey collectively, where in Africa, only 50,000 people out of the millions that were infected with HIV were receiving lifesaving treatment,” Dr. John Nkangasong, head of PEPFAR, said at Devex World 2024. “Look at where we are today. PEPFAR alone has more than 20 million people receiving lifesaving treatment. We've saved over 25 million lives, mainly in Africa, and prevented about 5.5 million children from being born of HIV.”
Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, Nkengasong outlined three priorities to sustain and accelerate this progress. First, ensure that those currently receiving treatment continue to stay on it. Second, close gaps in the response to reduce new infections. And third, focus on sustainability — not only in terms of funding but also in maintaining political commitment, refining program needs, and strengthening partnerships.