Nairobi, Kenya – Friday, July 14, 2025: Kenya to Roll Out Lenacapavir HIV Injection in 2026In a groundbreaking step toward HIV prevention, Kenya will begin administering Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection, in January 2026. The biannual shot, priced at Ksh6,000 per dose, offers six months of protection against HIV, according to Dr. Andrew Mulwa, head of the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP).
Dr. Mulwa described the injectable as a major milestone for the country’s HIV response strategy, particularly for individuals struggling with adherence to daily oral PrEP.
What Is Lenacapavir and How Does It Work?
Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), administered twice yearly. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially endorsed its use on July 14, 2025, noting its convenience and efficacy in preventing HIV infection. However, the jab does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), Mulwa cautioned in an interview with NTV Kenya.
Learn more: What is PrEP and how does it work? – CDC
Kenya Chosen Among First African Nations
Kenya is one of nine African countries selected for the rollout of Lenacapavir through donor-backed programs. Other nations include Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Mozambique, Eswatini, and Lesotho. The initiative targets adolescent girls and young women, groups identified as most at risk of HIV infection.
Related: Kenya to Roll Out Lenacapavir: Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Injection by 2026
Explainer: UNAIDS report on HIV burden in Africa
Global Fund and Partners Back Rollout
The Global Fund, alongside Tiko Africa and UNAIDS, is supplying over 2 million doses globally, prioritizing countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The agreement comes after U.S. FDA approval of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention in June 2025, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the virus.
“Lenacapavir expands the HIV prevention toolkit, especially for people facing stigma or adherence challenges,” the Global Fund noted in a statement.
A Lifeline for High-Risk Populations
In Kenya, where approximately 1.4 million people live with HIV—ranking seventh globally—the new injection offers a discreet, convenient alternative to daily PrEP pills. Health officials hope this will increase adherence, particularly among youth and women in rural areas.
External: How Kenya is addressing PrEP challenges – AVAC
WHO Recommends Comprehensive Prevention Strategy
The WHO advised that Lenacapavir should be complementary to other HIV prevention methods, such as condoms, testing, and education programs. It also urged countries to update their HIV prevention frameworks to include injectable PrEP.
Parliamentary Oversight & Budget Concerns
Dr. Mulwa, also the Director of Preventive and Promotive Health, appeared before a Parliamentary Health Committee to discuss the rollout’s budget and infrastructure readiness. He emphasized that the Ministry of Health is collaborating with Kemsa and county governments to ensure seamless distribution.
