Haiti’s health officials and humanitarian organizations convened Monday to address the shortage of life-saving HIV/AIDS medication, as concerns mount over a potential health crisis in the country.

Louis Gérald Gilles, a member of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, assured the public that the government is exploring solutions to replenish supplies. “We want the population to know that we will get medicine,” Gilles stated, adding that the finance ministry will evaluate state funding to restock hospitals and pharmacies.

While Haitian authorities claim that medication stocks can last until the end of the year, some hospitals fear supplies could run out by July, putting thousands at risk.

The shortage stems from aid cuts introduced under former US President Donald Trump’s administration, which led to the closure of at least five clinics, including one that treated 2,500 patients.

Last week, dozens of Haitians living with HIV protested publicly, defying stigma to denounce USAID funding reductions. More than 150,000 people in Haiti have HIV/AIDS, but experts warn that the actual number may be much higher.

The crisis worsens as gang violence and poverty surge, fueling fears of an increase in infections due to limited treatment access.

IN THIS ARTICLE