Kenya Faces Crisis as Trump’s Executive Order Cuts Supply of HIV, Malaria Drugs
The Trump administration in the U.S. has recently moved to halt the supply of critical medications for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis in countries supported by U.S. aid.
U.S. Executive Order and Its Impact
On Tuesday, the Trump administration issued a memo to contractors and partners working with U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The memo instructed them to cease operations immediately as part of a broader freeze on U.S. aid and funding that took effect after Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
This freeze directly impacts the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program, which has been essential in saving lives and preventing millions of new HIV infections across the globe.
PEPFAR’s Role in Kenya
Funding and Support for HIV Programs
In Kenya, PEPFAR has played a vital role in funding projects aimed at reducing HIV infections and ensuring inclusive access to HIV treatment, including testing, management, and ongoing care. For the period between October 2024 and September 2025, PEPFAR allocated Ksh.43 billion to support these programs.
Potential Consequences of the Funding Cut
Risks to Patients and Health Systems
The funding cut could severely disrupt HIV treatment efforts in Kenya. Health sector stakeholders warn that this may lead to patients being at greater risk of illness, and could result in the spread of the virus. Furthermore, there is a concern about the emergence of drug-resistant strains of HIV.
Reactions from the Kenyan Government
The Kenyan government has urged citizens to remain calm and assured the public that alternative sources of funding for HIV management are being explored. Starting in December 2024, Kenya began transitioning to alternative funding sources to support HIV treatment.
Kenya’s Response to the Crisis
Health Cabinet Secretary’s Statement
Health CS Deborah Barasa addressed the situation during the East Africa Health Summit in Mombasa. She stated that the government is taking steps to identify and address the most affected areas, including financial and human resource impacts. The government plans to develop concrete interventions to mitigate the effects of the U.S. aid withdrawal.
Longstanding Partnership Between USAID and Kenya
A Collaborative Effort
Since 2003, USAID and Kenya have collaborated under the PEPFAR program. This partnership has resulted in the distribution of essential HIV testing kits, medications, and medical supplies, helping to prevent approximately 270,000 HIV-related deaths in Kenya and contributing to the global prevention of 26 million HIV infections.
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