Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
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Miami Herald - September 14, 2003
Unfortunately, congressional Republicans are poised to follow the White House and renege on the funding promise. Last week, Senate Republicans rejected an amendment that would have provided $3 billion in fiscal-year 2004 for phase one of the five-year plan. The White House has asked for only $2 billion this year. Of that, only $200 million would go to the Global AIDS Fund, which helps support anti-AIDS initiatives in 93 countries, many of them desperately poor. Mr. Bush had promised $1 billion for the fund alone. The severe cuts will cause irreparable harm, because more people will die -- it's that simple.
In his State of the Union Address this year, the president talked the talk, lamenting the breadth of AIDS's destructione in Africa. Then, to near-universal hosannas, he walked the walk, pledging $15 billion over five years to fight the devastating disease.
This summer, on a five-country African tour, he told Botswanans that "you will not face this enemy alone." Now, African leaders and advocates are left to wonder if the speechifying was no more than a photo-op.
Mr. Bush was right: AIDS looms large in Africa. In Botswana alone, 40 percent of the adult population is infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. In sub-Saharan Africa, women and girls make up 60 percent of all those infected. With little education or independent income, they are disproportionately at risk for infection. This has dire implications for Africa's future strength and vitality. The disease leaves orphans, many conscripted as soldiers into civil wars; it is a drain on economies and healthcare resources.
Congress should restore full funding when the appropriation goes to conference. Lawmakers should insist on proven, culturally targeted programs so that the money is used to its fullest effect. Over 10 years, Uganda has cut its HIV-infected population to 5 percent from 15 percent with a successful AIDS education program.
The need is inarguably great. The extra $1 billion is a pittance when compared to other spending. We should follow through on our commitment to save lives.
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