Kenya has been picked as one of nine countries to begin using a new HIV prevention injection, Lenacapavir, with the drug expected to be available to the public by January 2026.
The news comes after the World Health Organization officially backed the twice-a-year injectable drug as a reliable method of avoiding HIV, especially in those who may find it difficult to stick to daily treatment.
The Ministry of Health, through the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP), confirmed on Tuesday that the preparations are already underway.
“We’re working closely with our partners to make sure this new option reaches Kenyans by early next year,” NASCOP said in a statement.
Lenacapavir, often referred to as LEN, is the first long-acting injectable PrEP that only needs to be given every six months. It has shown high success in clinical trials and is now being seen as a game-changer for HIV prevention.
WHO chief Dr. Tedros Adhanom said the drug offers hope, especially as efforts to develop an HIV vaccine remain out of reach.
“This could be the next best thing. It’s a major step forward, especially for people facing stigma or difficulty accessing regular health services,” he said.
The rollout comes at a time when HIV figures around the globe continue to remain high. 1.3 million were newly infected with HIV in 2024, while another 630,000 lost their lives due to related complications. Most are in Africa, where nearly two-thirds of the world’s HIV population are based.
Although more people are currently being treated 31.6 million in 2024 compared to 30.3 million last year analysts point out new prevention treatments like Lenacapavir are required now to stem infections.