Kenya has officially launched Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, in a move hailed as a major boost to the country’s fight against the epidemic.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale presided over the ceremony at Riruta Health Centre, highlighting the innovation as a critical step amid rising HIV cases.
“With 1.4 million Kenyans living with HIV and thousands of new infections annually, prevention remains central to our strategy,” Duale said.
He noted that the new injectable has met all regulatory requirements and undergone rigorous international and local review, including approval by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
The rollout is supported by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and fully integrates into government health systems.
In its initial phase, Lenacapavir will be administered twice a year at no cost to eligible individuals in selected public facilities across priority counties.
The rollout will be managed by trained healthcare professionals to ensure safe, equitable, and responsible access.
County multi-sectoral coordinators and community health promoters are receiving training to support awareness campaigns, community mobilization, and dissemination of accurate, evidence-based information.
Kenya is among the first countries globally to introduce this long-acting HIV prevention option, reflecting confidence in the country’s health system and commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“This launch demonstrates our resolve to leave no Kenyan behind as we advance public health,” Duale emphasized.
The event was attended by top officials, 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, and representatives from international partners such as UNAIDS, WHO, US Government agencies, AHF, and the Global Fund.
Experts say the introduction of Lenacapavir could transform HIV prevention efforts, particularly for young people and high-risk groups, by offering a reliable, long-term protective option that complements existing strategies like condoms and pre-exposure prophylaxis.
This initiative positions Kenya as a regional leader in HIV innovation, strengthening the country’s broader public health agenda.