Elton John Hopes To End HIV/AIDS By 2030 As He Launches $125 Million Rocket Fund

Legendary singer Elton John, through his Elton John AIDS Foundation, has reportedly launched the Rocket Fund, a $125 million initiative aimed at combating the rising rates of HIV infections. The musician expressed optimism about ending AIDS by 2030, stating it is "possible and doable." 

Additionally, the 76-year-old introduced the "Let Your Inner Elton Out" social media campaign to raise awareness about AIDS and HIV. The foundation's work over 26 years has significantly impacted global HIV treatment from less than 300,000 to over 20 million individuals. 

Keep on reading to learn more.

According to the Daily Mail, Elton John has expressed his optimism about ending AIDS by 2030, as he recently launched a new initiative called the Rocket Fund. This three-year fund, totaling £101 million (about $125 million), aims to address the escalating rates of HIV infections within vulnerable communities.

In an interview with "Good Morning America" (GMA), the 76-year-old musician emphasized the ongoing work required to combat AIDS, stating, "We still have work to do, but that's why I'm launching this, we want to end the Aids situation by 2030, we think it's possible (and) it's doable so we just want to get a move on."

The fund will support over one million individuals accessing vital HIV prevention and treatment services. This includes facilitating tests, administering antiretroviral therapies, and providing pre-exposure prophylaxis treatment for HIV (PrEP).

In addition to launching the Rocket Fund, Sir John has introduced a social media campaign titled "Let Your Inner Elton Out." This initiative aims to raise awareness about AIDS and HIV by encouraging individuals to reference the iconic music legend on various social media platforms.

"The message is come on, 'Let Your Inner Elton Out,' let's raise the money, let's get this done and dusted," he shared, per Daily Mail. "I'm going to challenge some of my friends ... I'm challenging Michaela Jae Rodriguez, Neil Patrick Harris, and JoJo Siwa to see what they come up with."

Over 26 years, the Elton John AIDS Foundation has achieved remarkable milestones. Their efforts have reached millions of people in 26 different countries, providing vital HIV information, support, and care to save lives and protect loved ones. 

The foundation has also played a crucial role in preventing nearly a million babies from being born with HIV. Additionally, their work has helped secure over £300 million in additional funding from governments and funding partners, significantly impacting the fight against AIDS.

Following the announcement of the "Let Your Inner Elton Out" challenge, singer and dancer Siwa decided to don the legendary musician's iconic fiery red outfit to support the rocket fund.

Taking to Instagram, Siwa wrote, "I'm letting my #InnerElton out to help end LGBTQ+ stigma. Everyone deserves the right to live their true self, find happiness and feel loved. Join me in supporting the Elton John AIDS Foundation and donate now at @ejaf."

While speaking with People magazine about the Rocket Fund, the former Nickelodeon star said, "This new Rocket Fund launch is going to be such a great thing for the world because I think it's going to educate and fund and just bring awareness — more than there already is — and help take away the stigma."

She added, "That will be such a beautiful thing."

Since its establishment in 1992, the charity has expanded global HIV treatment from less than 300,000 individuals to over 20 million. 

In a heartfelt statement, per Daily Mail, the "Cold Heart" hitmaker emphasized the significance of the foundation's mission, particularly in our present circumstances. John expressed unwavering optimism, personally and on behalf of the entire foundation, regarding their ability to positively impact those affected by HIV and AIDS.

He further elaborated on the nature of their work, especially in a world filled with uncertainty, stating, "At this time of great uncertainty in the world, EJAF's work is more important than ever, and we remain steadfastly committed to addressing the unmet needs of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS and fighting stigma as a major driver of the global AIDS epidemic."

He added, "We believe everyone living quality medical care and all people at risk of HIV should be empowered with the best knowledge and tools available to prevent transmission no matter who they are, who they love, what they believe, where they come from, or what they do."