NAIROB- Kenya has officially launched Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to curb new infections and strengthen its national HIV response.
The launch ceremony was presided over by Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale at Riruta Health Centre in Nairobi.
Describing the introduction of Lenacapavir as a milestone in Kenya’s prevention strategy, Duale noted that approximately 1.4 million Kenyans are currently living with HIV, with thousands of new infections recorded annually.
He emphasised that expanding access to innovative prevention tools is essential to reversing transmission trends and safeguarding vulnerable populations.
“This marks a new chapter in our HIV prevention journey. Long-acting options like Lenacapavir will improve adherence, reduce stigma associated with daily medication, and widen protection for those at highest risk,” Duale said.
According to the Ministry of Health, Lenacapavir has met all regulatory and procurement requirements under Kenya’s national laws and health guidelines.
Its safety, quality and effectiveness were rigorously assessed through international scientific review and local evaluation by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, with support from the Global Fund.
The injectable will be administered twice a year and offered free of charge to eligible individuals at selected public health facilities in priority counties.
Officials confirmed that the rollout will follow a phased and structured approach, guided by trained healthcare professionals to ensure safe and equitable access.
Kenya is among the first countries globally to introduce Lenacapavir for HIV prevention — a move seen as a vote of confidence in the country’s health systems and its capacity to deliver advanced medical innovations responsibly.
The launch event brought together senior government officials and development partners, including Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga; NASCOP CEO Dr. Andrew Mulwa; Family Health Director Dr. Issak Bashir; Dagoretti North MP Hon. Beatrice Elachi; as well as representatives from the UNAIDS, World Health Organization, the US Government and AHF.
Health experts say the introduction of long-acting prevention options could significantly accelerate Kenya’s progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat, particularly among key and vulnerable populations.
As the country strengthens its prevention toolbox, Lenacapavir is expected to play a transformative role in reducing new infections and advancing Kenya’s commitment to achieving epidemic control.
