Zackie Achmat, once a central figure in South Africa’s campaign for HIV treatment access, has resumed his activism as U.S. funding cuts and his government’s slow response to the crisis threaten to undermine progress made in combating the epidemic. The activist, who gained international recognition for his role in advocating for antiretroviral therapy during the early 2000s, has expressed concern over the potential for treatment shortages and reduced healthcare infrastructure, which he fears could reverse years of progress. His return to the forefront of the movement highlights the ongoing challenges faced by South Africa in maintaining access to essential medications amid political and financial uncertainties.