Kenya Launches Twice-Yearly HIV Prevention Injectable

Kenya is rolling out a game-changing weapon in the fight against HIV: a long-acting injectable that people only need twice a year to stay protected.

Health officials launched Lenacapavir at Riruta Health Centre in Nairobi, offering fresh hope to a country where 1.4 million people live with HIV and thousands of new infections occur annually. Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale called it a milestone that demonstrates Kenya's commitment to cutting-edge prevention strategies.

The timing couldn't be better. Traditional daily pills require perfect adherence to work, but many people struggle with that routine. This injectable removes that daily burden entirely.

Kenya joins an elite group as one of the first nations worldwide to introduce this innovative option. The drug passed rigorous international scientific reviews and earned approval from Kenya's Pharmacy and Poisons Board for safety, quality, and effectiveness.

The rollout strategy focuses on equity and accessibility. Selected public health facilities in priority counties will provide the injectable completely free to eligible individuals, with trained healthcare professionals supervising every step of the phased implementation.

Funding comes from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, ensuring the program can reach those who need it most. County coordinators and Community Health Promoters are already in training to spread awareness and educate communities about the new prevention tool.

The initiative aligns perfectly with Kenya's push toward Universal Health Coverage. Officials are particularly focused on protecting young people, who face disproportionate HIV risk, while supporting those already living with the virus.

The Ripple Effect

This launch signals something bigger than one country's health policy. Kenya's early adoption of Lenacapavir demonstrates that African nations can lead in delivering advanced medical solutions, not just receive them. The country's robust health systems and regulatory frameworks made this possible.

When prevention becomes easier, entire communities benefit. Families stay intact, children grow up with healthy parents, and healthcare systems can redirect resources from treatment to other pressing needs. Each person protected from HIV creates a ripple that touches countless others.

Development partners including UNAIDS, WHO, and the Global Fund attended the launch, showing strong international support. Their presence underscores global confidence in Kenya's ability to implement this complex program successfully.

Cabinet Secretary Duale called for unity among county governments, health workers, community leaders, and partners to make the initiative work. Accurate public information will be crucial as communities learn about this new prevention option.

With twice-yearly injections now available, Kenya is writing a new chapter in its HIV story—one where prevention becomes simpler, protection becomes stronger, and hope becomes tangible.