(DDM) – Kenya has marked a milestone in HIV prevention by becoming the first country in East Africa to receive Lenacapavir, a long-acting Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) medication designed to protect HIV-negative individuals from infection.
The initial batch of Lenacapavir arrived on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, in Kenya, home to an estimated 1.4 million people living with HIV. The drug, administered as an injection twice a year, offers six months of protection per dose and works by blocking critical stages of the HIV life cycle. Health officials emphasized that Lenacapavir is not a vaccine or a cure and is intended solely for those who do not have HIV.
Kenya received 21,000 starter doses for rollout across 15 priority counties selected based on HIV prevalence. These include Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu, Kisii, Mombasa, Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, Busia, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, and Nakuru. A further 12,000 continuation doses are expected by April to ensure uninterrupted treatment for those who start the injection.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale stated that Lenacapavir will be integrated into Kenya’s existing health system through the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA), with oversight by the National AIDS and STI Control Programme to ensure safe and effective distribution.
He underscored that those on HIV treatment must continue their therapy, as Lenacapavir is preventive and not curative.
Approved by the U.S. FDA in June 2025 and later endorsed by the World Health Organization in July 2025, Lenacapavir has been recognized for its safety and efficacy.
Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board approved its registration in January 2026, clearing both the 300mg tablets and the 464mg injectable solution for use. The Global Fund funded the initial batch, covering an annual cost of approximately $60 per patient.
Following Kenya’s adoption, other African countries such as Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have also positioned themselves as early adopters.
Experts note that the twice-yearly dosing regimen could improve adherence compared to daily oral PrEP, offering a practical alternative for populations at risk. Kenya’s rollout begins with the 15 priority counties and will gradually expand to cover all 47 counties nationwide.
Lenacapavir’s introduction represents a major step in regional HIV prevention, complementing ongoing health initiatives and strengthening the fight against HIV across East Africa.
