By: Bright Ntuli
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is set to face Members of Parliament in the National Assembly today, where he will respond to a wide range of questions on pressing national issues.
Among the key topics on the agenda is the government’s response to the withdrawal of the United States’ President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) funding, a move that has raised concern among health sector stakeholders.
PEPFAR, a multi-billion-dollar US initiative, has for years supported HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care programmes globally, including in South Africa, which has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. The country received billions of rands annually through the fund, contributing significantly to the fight against the epidemic.
However, in January 2025, US President Donald Trump announced the suspension of all foreign development assistance, including PEPFAR, as part of a broader isolationist policy shift. As a result, many HIV-related programmes in South Africa were terminated by February, although some remain operational through residual funding or alternative support.
The presidency has indicated that Deputy President Mashatile will reassure Parliament and the public that the withdrawal of PEPFAR funding will not severely impact the procurement and distribution of antiretroviral (ARV) medication. South Africa’s ARV programme, one of the largest in the world, is largely state-funded and remains a critical component of public healthcare.
Mashatile is also expected to outline efforts to mitigate water shortages in drought-affected regions, including plans to strengthen infrastructure, improve water management, and coordinate with local municipalities to ensure reliable supply.
In addition, he will update Parliament on government support for small-scale and smallholder farmers, focusing on funding mechanisms, access to land and markets, and resilience in the face of climate change and economic pressures.
The Deputy President’s appearance comes amid heightened public scrutiny of government performance, particularly in the delivery of essential services and the sustainability of key development programmes.
