Kenya’s HIV patients are facing significant challenges due to a recent freeze on U.S. foreign aid, which has disrupted the distribution of essential antiretroviral (ARV) drugs. Despite millions of doses being stored in Nairobi warehouses, clinics are struggling to supply patients with more than a month’s worth of medication. This situation has left many patients, including children, anxious about their access to life-saving treatments.

The aid freeze, initiated by President Donald Trump, has caused major delays in the global medical product supply chain. Although a waiver was later issued to exempt HIV treatment funding from the freeze, the USAID payment system in Kenya remains non-operational. This has prevented the distribution of approximately $34 million worth of medicines and equipment, exacerbating the health crisis affecting around 1.4 million Kenyans living with HIV.

Children’s homes, such as Nyumbani Children’s Home, are particularly vulnerable. The U.S. has been a major donor, providing over $16 million since 1999. The aid freeze threatens the health and lives of children who depend on these drugs to survive. The Kenyan government has indicated that its antiretroviral stock is sufficient for only six months, adding to the urgency of the situation.

Governments and global health organizations are collaborating to address urgent gaps in combating diseases such as HIV after the U.S. significantly reduced foreign aid funding. The Trump administration’s 80% cut in foreign aid programs has jeopardized global efforts to fight deadly diseases, leading to an uncertain future for programs like PEPFAR.