Bongani Bingwa speaks to Jens Pedersen, Director at the Africa First Advisory, about the far-reaching consequences of recent US funding cuts to HIV and TB programmes in Africa. For over 20 years, the PEPFAR initiative had bipartisan support and saved more than 25 million lives, including many in South Africa. However, in February, the Trump administration abruptly announced funding reductions that led to the closure of several clinics, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups such as adolescent girls, young women, sex workers, trans people, injecting drug users, and LGBTQ+ communities. While pregnant and breastfeeding mothers continue to receive support, others have been left behind. Following strong activist pushback, there has been a limited reprieve, but the future of critical HIV services remains uncertain as political agendas increasingly interfere with global health aid. 

702 Breakfast with Bongani Bingwa is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station.

Bongani makes sense of the news, interviews the key newsmakers of the day, and holds those in power to account on your behalf. The team bring you all you need to know to start your day 

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