By Draxon Maloya
The Ministry of Health has moved in to calm fears among people living with HIV/AIDS, ensuring that the country has sufficient stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) medication, test kits, and other essential supplies.
This assurance comes following the American president, Donald Trump issued executive orders included the US withdrawal from the WHO over costs and alleged mishandling of the Covid 19 pandemic.
Trump issued a similar order in his first term which was reversed by former president Joe Biden.
The US President also argued that America is shouldering too much costs of the health organization, having spent 1.2 billion dollars in 2022 and 2023
Over 900,000 people in Malawi live with HIV and receive ARV treatment, making the country’s ARV supply chain crucial.
Commenting on the issue earlier in the week, Chairperson of the parliamentary committee on health Mathews Ngwale notes that the development will disrupt health programs.
But in a press statement the Ministry of Health has emphasized that all health facilities are prepared to ensure uninterrupted services, alleviating panic among Malawians living with HIV/AIDS.
“Malawi’s efforts to provide universal access to HIV treatment have been successful, with the country achieving remarkable results in Thyolo district, where at least eight out of ten people who need antiretroviral treatment are actually getting it,” reads part of the statement.
However, the high prices of newer AIDS drugs pose a significant threat to sustaining universal access to treatment.
Responding to the development, Executive Director for the Christian Justice International, Bishop Amos Tchuma hailed government for the timely assurance on the matter.
“It’s a relief to our citizens, mainly those on ARV treatment. We will continue monitoring the situation and ensure that this is not politicised in anyway considering that the country is in an election year,” said Tchuma.
There are fears that the health sector in Malawi will be crippled following the decision by the US to pull out of the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Ministry’s assurance is a welcome move, as it remains essential to address the underlying challenges in the ARV supply chain, including procurement and supply management systems, to prevent stock outs and ensure uninterrupted treatment.
