Tanzania Government Reassures Public on ARV Supply

Government Spokesman Reassures Public on ARV Availability Amid Aid Cutbacks

Dar es Salaam, March 1, 2025

The recent announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump to suspend the distribution of HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis medications to countries receiving aid from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has raised concerns about the availability of vital treatments in Tanzania.

Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa addressed these concerns, revealing that following the U.S. aid cutback, many individuals dependent on antiretroviral (ARV) medication for HIV treatment visited health centers requesting up to two or three years' worth of supplies. Their fears stemmed from uncertainty over the future availability of these essential medications.

Speaking to the press on March 1, 2025, during his remarks on President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recent visit to Tanga, the third Coffee Producing Countries Summit, and her four years in office, Msigwa reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to ARV availability.

He stated, "The medications are available, and all Tanzanians using ARVs should rest easy. The government is well-prepared, and if external funding for these medications is reduced, we will ensure they are purchased and distributed locally."

Msigwa urged those using ARVs not to hoard their medications, noting that storing the drugs improperly could reduce their effectiveness. He emphasized the importance of continuing treatment as prescribed by healthcare professionals and following safety guidelines to prevent further HIV transmission.

“We are committed to ensuring that the supply of ARVs remains uninterrupted. Keep taking your medication, stay focused on your health, and continue to observe all preventive measures against the virus,” he added.

His comments come in the wake of President Trump's January 28 announcement, which ordered the cessation of U.S. aid for crucial health treatments in Tanzania and other nations receiving U.S. support. The decision has sparked widespread concern among healthcare experts and humanitarian organizations, fearing that it could severely impact people relying on programs like the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

PEPFAR, which has been instrumental in saving millions of lives across Africa since its inception in 2003, faces significant disruption as a result of the suspension. According to global sources, this decision is likely to affect millions of people who rely on the program for essential medical care.

Msigwa’s reassurances reflect the government’s proactive stance in addressing potential health care challenges amid a global funding crisis for critical HIV/AIDS programs. He encouraged the public to remain calm and focused on continued vigilance in the fight against HIV, with Tanzania positioning itself as a leader in global efforts to combat the virus.