Nairobi, January 9, 2026 Kenya has made a historic breakthrough in the fight against HIV, becoming the first African nation to recommend the registration of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medicine for HIV prevention. The Ministry of Health, through the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, announced the approval of Lenacapavir 300 mg tablets and 464 mg injectable solution for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
The decision follows a comprehensive scientific review confirming the safety, efficacy, and quality of Lenacapavir, aligning with both Kenyan law and international regulatory standards. The move positions Kenya at the forefront of HIV prevention innovation on the continent.
Lenacapavir, developed as a long-acting antiretroviral, works by interfering with critical stages of the HIV lifecycle, effectively preventing infection. Unlike daily oral PrEP, the new injectable formulation only needs to be administered twice a year, offering a more convenient and discreet option for individuals at risk of HIV infection.
According to the Ministry of Health, this advancement aligns with global public health recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) and demonstrates Kenya’s growing regulatory capacity and leadership in adopting cutting-edge health technologies.
Kenya has already made significant progress in expanding access to daily oral PrEP across all 47 counties. However, adherence challenges and stigma have limited consistent use. The introduction of Lenacapavir is expected to address these barriers by providing a more sustainable and user-friendly prevention method.
Health officials emphasized that the twice-yearly injection could transform HIV prevention efforts, particularly among vulnerable populations, and contribute to the country’s long-term goal of reducing new HIV infections.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring equitable access to the new treatment and strengthening public health systems to support its rollout nationwide.
