Malawi Healthcare Collapse: US Aid Cuts Undo HIV Progress

Malawi's healthcare system faces a critical collapse a year after US foreign aid was drastically reduced in January 2025. This funding squeeze has led to significant cuts in essential HIV treatments, a rise in unplanned pregnancies, and a resurgence of discrimination against vulnerable groups. Providers warn that a decade of progress against HIV/AIDS is being undone. Patients are experiencing a lack of specialized care, with some reporting discriminatory treatment at public hospitals after their usual providers vanished due to budget cuts. Organizations like the Centre for the Development of People have had to lay off staff and close drop-in centers. The Family Planning Association of Malawi has grounded mobile clinics, leaving remote villages without vital healthcare access. This has resulted in an increase in pregnancies in areas previously served by these clinics. The interruption of services has led to a high default rate for HIV preventative drugs, increasing the risk of new infections and jeopardizing years of public health achievements.