Kenya is set to be one of the first nine countries globally to roll out Lenacapavir (LEN), a groundbreaking injectable HIV prevention drug, following its recent approval by the World Health Organization (WHO). The drug is expected to be available to Kenyans by January 2026, according to the National AIDS and STI Control Program (NASCOP).
What is Lenacapavir, and how does it work?
Lenacapavir is the first long-acting injectable medication for HIV prevention that only needs to be taken twice a year. It provides an alternative to daily oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) pills, which many users find difficult to maintain due to adherence challenges or limited access to healthcare. WHO has recommended LEN as a powerful tool to protect people at high risk of HIV, especially in communities facing stigma or logistical barriers.
“While an HIV vaccine remains elusive, Lenacapavir is the next best thing: a long-acting antiretroviral shown in trials to prevent almost all HIV infections among those at risk,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Why is this rollout significant for Kenya and Africa?
This rollout comes at a critical time. HIV prevention efforts have slowed globally, with 1.3 million new infections recorded in 2024 alone. Africa bears the heaviest burden, hosting about 65% of the 40.8 million people living with HIV worldwide by the end of 2024. Kenya’s inclusion in the early adoption phase signals a proactive move to expand access to life-saving innovations.
How is access to HIV treatment improving globally?
Alongside prevention, treatment is also improving. As of 2024, around 31.6 million people globally are receiving antiretroviral therapy, up from 30.3 million in 2023. Despite progress, HIV-related deaths still claimed approximately 630,000 lives last year, including 120,000 children. With Lenacapavir’s rollout, health experts hope to turn a new chapter in the fight against HIV.
By Lucky Anyanje
