When USAID-funded HIV clinics in Cape Town suddenly closed, thousands of people were left without access to life-saving medication and support. SWEAT's outreach team is working to find and reconnect them to treatment, provide HIV testing and counselling, and ensure continued access to care through community-based networks.
In February 2025, the sudden shutdown of 40 USAID-funded clinics left an estimated 5,000 people in Cape Town without HIV medication or sexual health services. Many only discovered the closures when they went to collect their next dose. With no patient records and no government plan in place, vulnerable people were left at high risk of treatment interruption and HIV transmission.
SWEAT's field workers are tracing clients through informal networks, ensuring they find alternative clinics, receive counselling, and continue their HIV treatment. The team also provides free HIV testing, distributes condoms, and runs community workshops on risk reduction - keeping people safe and connected to care during this crisis.
By reconnecting people to treatment and care, SWEAT is preventing avoidable illness, HIV transmission, and loss of trust in the health system. This project strengthens community resilience and ensures no one living with HIV is left behind - even when formal services fail.
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