Lenacapavir rollout to curb new HIV infections
MICHAEL OMONDI-KNA
Kenya has taken a historic step in the fight against HIV with the official launch of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable designed to prevent new infections.
The launch, presided over by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale at Riruta Health Centre in Nairobi, marks a milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its HIV response and protect vulnerable populations.
Speaking during the ceremony, Duale emphasized the urgency of expanding innovative prevention options, noting that approximately 1.4 million Kenyans are currently living with HIV.
Despite significant progress in treatment and awareness, thousands of new infections continue to be recorded each year.
“We must reverse these transmission trends and safeguard our communities,” Duale said, stressing that Lenacapavir offers a powerful new tool in prevention efforts.
Lenacapavir, which will be administered twice a year, has undergone rigorous scientific review to ensure its safety, quality, and effectiveness.
The injectable has been evaluated both internationally and locally, with Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board confirming its compliance with national regulatory and procurement requirements.
The rollout has been supported by the Global Fund, underscoring the collaborative effort between Kenya and international partners to deliver cutting-edge medical innovations responsibly.
According to Duale, the injection will be offered free of charge to eligible individuals at selected public health facilities in priority counties.
The rollout will follow a phased and structured approach, guided by trained healthcare professionals to guarantee safe and equitable access.
“This is not just about introducing a new medicine; it is about ensuring that every Kenyan who needs it can access it without barriers,” he explained.
Kenya’s adoption of Lenacapavir places the country among the first globally to introduce the injectable for HIV prevention.
This achievement signals strong international confidence in Kenya’s health systems and its ability to deliver advanced medical solutions.
It also reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening public health infrastructure and expanding prevention strategies beyond traditional methods.
Among those present during the launch were Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP) CEO Dr. Andrew Mulwa, Head of Department of Family Health Dr. Issak Bashir, and Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi.
Development partners including representatives from the Global Fund, UNAIDS, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. government, and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) also attended, reaffirming their support for Kenya’s leadership in HIV prevention.
Dr. Oluga praised the initiative as a turning point in the country’s health sector, noting that long-acting prevention methods could significantly reduce the burden of daily or frequent medication adherence.
“This innovation will empower individuals, especially those at higher risk, to protect themselves more effectively,” he said.
Similarly, Dr. Mulwa highlighted the importance of integrating Lenacapavir into broader HIV prevention strategies, including education, testing, and community outreach.
Representatives from UNAIDS and WHO commended the government’s proactive approach, noting that Lenacapavir’s rollout aligns with global targets to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
As the phased rollout begins, the government has assured Kenyans that continuous monitoring and evaluation will be conducted to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Healthcare workers will receive specialized training to administer the injection.