Dear SKPA-2 Colleagues,
The recent shift in foreign aid funding has significantly impacted HIV services globally. While our SKPA-2 countries are not PEPFAR-supported, many of our allies and implementing partners have been directly affected by these funding changes, particularly organizations within the Seven Alliance and UNAIDS who are experiencing substantial challenges.
As we plan for the next phase of SKPA-2, our priority is maximizing value for money in this changed funding landscape. This means we must create leaner operational models by reducing our overheads and staffing costs to ensure more funds are directed toward high-impact activities. These necessary adjustments will affect both Health Equity Matters, as Principal Recipient, and our partners.
In March, our Global Fund Portfolio Manager and other Global Fund colleagues met with the Health Equity Matters, SKPA-2 team in Bangkok. This productive week allowed us to evaluate our Phase 1 achievements, identify initiatives with potential for continued impact, and determine which elements are no longer viable within our tighter budget constraints. Though challenging, these discussions resulted in a clearer vision for a streamlined SKPA-2 program that can operate effectively within the reduced funding environment we all face.
For those countries continuing under Phase 2, you will need to be prepared for a different way of working. We wish the individuals and organizations impacted by the funding cuts our best during what is an unprecedented time. The HIV epidemic has been paved with many challenges, this is another one we must face together as a united front.
The path ahead may look different than what we initially envisioned, but we remain committed to supporting equitable health outcomes and will continue to work towards sustainable funding mechanisms for HIV services globally.
Best wishes,
Felicity
Published on: 10-Apr-2025
