Milestones & Publications

Achievements from the First Funding Phase

Despite decades of significant donor support from the global north (notably PEPFAR and the Global Fund), sub-Saharan Africa remains dependent on external funding for its HIV response. Neither PEPFAR nor the Global Fund were designed to replace African ownership, and both donors and recipient countries have inadequately planned for the transition to domestic leadership and financing.

Recent U.S. funding policy shifts—restricting support for certain HIV prevention activities (e.g., key populations programs, some adolescent-focused interventions, broader PrEP use)—have accelerated the urgency for Africa-led, sustainable HIV programs. The African-led HIV Control Working Group (HCWG), hosted by CIDRZ, has successfully established itself as an influential independent African voice advocating for locally led and financed HIV responses, fostering epidemic control and health system integration.

· HCWG gained recognition and active participation in high-level forums involving African governments, PEPFAR, Global Fund, Africa CDC, and others.

· It convened stakeholders across government, private sector, and communities, effectively elevating African perspectives on HIV sustainability, leadership, and integrated healthcare (including Universal Health Coverage—UHC).

· Published influential advocacy papers, such as the Lancet Global Health commentary titled “Africa’s defining moment: the time to lead the HIV response is now,” which can be accessed below. financing.

Publications

Africa's defining moment: the time to lead the HIV response is now

Breaking barriers, changing paradigms: Africa's radical agenda for HIV sustainability