Kenya is set to begin the rollout of a high efficacy HIV prevention injection in March, a move hailed by health authorities as a major step forward in the fight against new infections.
The drug, lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, is administered twice a year and has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the risk of HIV transmission by more than 99.9 percent when used correctly.
An initial shipment of 21,000 doses has been delivered through support from the Global Fund, with another 12,000 doses expected by April. The first phase of the programme will cover 15 counties, targeting populations at greatest risk of infection.
Health experts say the introduction of lenacapavir could strengthen HIV prevention strategies, particularly in eastern and southern Africa, which account for over half of the estimated 40.8 million people living with HIV worldwide.
The rollout comes as African nations adjust to changing U.S. foreign aid policies under President Donald Trump, prompting renewed focus on domestic health system capacity and sustainable financing.
Kenyan authorities confirmed that preparations are underway to ensure effective distribution, community awareness, and monitoring as the programme begins next month. They expressed optimism that the new injection will play a critical role in curbing HIV transmission and advancing efforts to end the epidemic.