Millions of people in Nigeria and other poor countries are at risk as the Trump administration has ordered a halt to the supply of lifesaving drugs for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
This decision also affects medical supplies for newborn babies in countries supported by the United States Agency for International Development.
The directive was revealed in a memo obtained by Reuters, which stated that contractors and partners working with USAID were instructed to stop their activities immediately. The pause, which began on January 20 when Trump took office, is part of a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign aid as programs undergo review.
One of the affected organizations is Chemonics, a U.S. consulting firm that supplies medicines for various diseases. The firm’s work includes providing HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis drugs, along with contraception and maternal and child health supplies.
Atul Gawande, the former head of global health at USAID, called the situation “catastrophic.” He stated, “Donated drug supplies keeping 20 million people living with HIV alive. That stops today.”
Gawande further warned that interruptions in treatment could lead to patients becoming ill, transmitting diseases such as HIV to others, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. He also noted that organizations caring for 6.5 million orphans and vulnerable children with HIV in 23 countries would no longer be able to deliver medicines or open clinics funded by the U.S.
The Trump administration’s actions have also resulted in approximately 60 senior USAID officials being placed on leave, further disrupting the agency’s ability to operate.
