By Bunmi Yekini

On October 10th, U.S. Department of State’s Global AIDS Coordinator and Senior Bureau Official for Global Health Security and Diplomacy, Ambassador John N. Nkengasong, engaged with journalists from across Africa to discuss the future of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS on the continent.
Ambassador Nkengasong, speaking from Botswana, emphasized PEPFAR’s achievements, notably Botswana’s success in meeting the UNAIDS “95-95-95” targets, identifying 95% of HIV-positive individuals, ensuring 95% are receiving treatment, and 95% achieving viral load suppression. Despite such progress, he stressed the need for sustained efforts beyond 2030, the target year for ending AIDS as a public health threat.
In response to questions about sustainability, Nkengasong acknowledged the critical role of public-private partnerships and strong government leadership in securing long-term success. “The fight against HIV/AIDS is not over. PEPFAR has invested over $110 billion globally, with over $1 billion in Botswana alone. But the focus now is on how we work with governments to ensure that these gains are maintained,” Nkengasong said.
When asked about the potential for Africa’s health systems to stand on their own if PEPFAR support wanes, Nkengasong stressed the importance of sustained dialogue with partner governments, noting, “It’s not about ending PEPFAR; it’s about constructing a way forward based on our success.”
He also tackled concerns about HIV being labeled a “forgotten pandemic” amid other global crises, such as COVID-19 and climate change. Nkengasong reminded journalists of HIV’s ongoing toll, particularly in Africa, where 60% of the world’s HIV-related deaths occur. “HIV is still killing people. The fight is not over,” he warned.
PEPFAR’s future beyond 2030 remains uncertain, but Nkengasong assured that the U.S. remains committed to supporting African countries. He highlighted the significant capacity-building efforts PEPFAR has undertaken, including strengthening over 3,000 laboratories and training over 240,000 healthcare workers.
With innovative HIV treatment methods, such as long-acting injectables, on the horizon, Nkengasong expressed optimism but noted that pricing and accessibility remain challenges. “The new developments are exciting, but we need to ensure they are affordable and accessible,” he said.
As Nkengasong concluded, he reiterated the importance of partnerships and political commitment to ensure that the progress made is not lost. “The journey to 2030 and beyond will depend on effective partnerships,” he stated, adding that PEPFAR’s legacy will be judged not just by the lives it has saved, but by the systems it has strengthened across Africa.
The briefing highlighted both the accomplishments and challenges in the fight against HIV/AIDS, underscoring that the road to an AIDS-free generation requires collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment.