Three brothers lost their parents to AIDS. Now they're on their own : NPR

Key Points:

• Three brothers aged 17, 15, and 12 in Zambia's Copperbelt Province are living in a dilapidated home with a leaking roof after losing both parents to HIV/AIDS, following disruptions in access to medication due to U.S. aid program changes.
• The U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) experienced funding and operational changes under the Trump administration, leading to clinic closures and medication shortages in remote areas, contributing to increased HIV-related deaths and a resurgence of child-headed households.
• Local community leader Pastor Billy reports a rise in newly orphaned children and struggling families, highlighting the loss of support systems that previously helped HIV-affected children with care, education, and nutrition.
• Despite U.S. government statements denying cuts to health funding for Zambia, reports indicate a nearly 20% drop in PEPFAR spending and thousands losing access to HIV treatment between 2024 and 2025, particularly in the Copperbelt Province.
• Joseph, the eldest brother, has dropped out of school to work and care for his siblings, who are both HIV positive, while facing challenges such as long travel distances to clinics, medication shortages, and financial hardship impacting their education and wellbeing.