Kenya receives first batch of Lenacapavir HIV drugs

Kenya has received an initial consignment of 21,000 starter doses of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to curb new infections.

Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth received the shipment, describing Kenya’s selection among the first countries in East Africa to roll out the drug as a testament to the country’s readiness to adopt innovative, people-centred HIV prevention strategies.

Health officials emphasized that it is not a vaccine but a preventive medicine administered every six months or twice a year, and patients will access it at Ksh.7,800 per year.

The drug was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2025 and later endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

In January 2026, Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB)completed a scientific review and recommended its registration for national use.

The consignment has been delivered with support from the Global Fund. A further 12,000 continuation doses are expected by April, while the United States has committed an additional 25,000 doses to strengthen early implementation.

Through the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP), MoH will oversee a phased rollout beginning in March 2026 in 15 high-burden counties.

The first phase will cover Mombasa, Kilifi, Machakos, Kakamega, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori and Homabay, with two additional phases planned to expand coverage nationwide.

Kenya continues to face a significant HIV burden, as 41 per cent of new infections occur among young people, underscoring the need for expanded prevention options.