The fight against HIV

US counter-demands give African countries a difficult balancing act

The US's demand for concessions from African countries in order to continue providing assistance to their health sectors is met with skepticism in many African countries. At the same time, this skepticism threatens several important healthcare programs, such as the ongoing rollout of the HIV drug lenacapavir.

The dilemma was the focus of Deutsche Welle's Africa program "DW News Africa" ​​this week.

So far, 17 countries have signed new agreements with the Trump administration, including Kenya and Nigeria. Zimbabwe is the first country to clearly say no, arguing that it undermines the country's independence.

Government spokesman Nick Mangwana downplays the rift between the US and Zimbabwe.

- They put "America first", but we put the Zimbabweans first. There is no diplomatic rift between the two countries, there is no problem between us.

Sex workers are breathing a sigh of relief as new HIV drug is rolled out

Several countries in Africa have started giving the drug lenacapavir, which after two injections protects against HIV and virus transmission for six months. Kenya and Zimbabwe joined Swaziland and Zambia this week.

It is a major step in the fight against HIV, reports Deutsche Welle. The deliveries are being made by the United States.

The newspaper has interviewed several relieved sex workers in Zimbabwe. Esnath Chinenyanga says that she can now relax for six months.

– If a condom breaks, we know that we are protected.

Program coordinator Precious Msindo says that many sex workers have previously had difficulty distinguishing between the different drugs and remembering to take their medication daily. Now it is clearer and easier. She “applauds” her country for recognizing and paying attention to the situation of sex workers.

Zimbabwe is one of the countries in the world hardest hit by HIV, with 1.3 million infected.