By M, KNA
Kenya has officially launched Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, in a major step to curb new infections and strengthen the national HIV response.
The launch was presided over by Health CS Aden Duale at Riruta Health Centre in Nairobi, where he described the introduction of Lenacapavir as a milestone in prevention efforts.
Duale noted that 1.4 million Kenyans are living with HIV, with thousands of new infections recorded each year.
In this regard, the CS emphasised that expanding innovative prevention options was critical to reversing transmission trends and protecting vulnerable populations.
Duale also confirmed that the medicine has met all regulatory and procurement requirements under national laws and health guidelines, with safety, quality and effectiveness rigorously assessed through international scientific review and local evaluation by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, with support from the Global Fund.
“The injectable will be administered twice a year, being offered free of charge to eligible individuals at selected public health facilities in priority counties,” disclosed the CS, adding that its rollout will follow a phased, structured approach guided by trained healthcare professionals to ensure safe and equitable access.
Notably, Kenya is among the first countries globally to introduce Lenacapavir for HIV prevention, signaling strong international confidence in the country’s health systems and its ability to responsibly deliver cutting-edge medical innovations.
The launching ceremony was also attended by the Medical Services PS Dr. Ouma Oluga, National Aids STI Control Programme (NASCOP) CEO Dr. Andrew Mulwa, Head of Department of Family Health Dr. Issak Bashir; Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi and development partners including representatives from the Global Fund, UNAIDS, WHO, US government and AHF.