No recklessness: State clarifies limits of new HIV prevention Lenacapavir

Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura speaking on March 2, 2026 / HANDOUT

The government has cautioned Kenyans against complacency as the country rolls out a new long-acting HIV prevention injectable, Lenacapavir.

Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura said that the breakthrough does not grant blanket immunity from HIV or other sexually transmitted infections.

Mwaura said Kenya continues to lead the continent in advancing innovative public health solutions, with the Ministry of Health introducing Lenacapavir, an active injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention.

He noted that the intervention reduces the risk of HIV acquisition by more than 99.9 per cent when properly administered, describing it as a significant medical advancement in the fight against new infections.

“The Ministry of Health has introduced Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. While often referred to in public discourse as a “vaccine” or shot, it is not a traditional vaccine. It is a highly effective injectable administered twice annually. This intervention reduces the risk of HIV acquisition by more than 99.9 per cent when properly administered,” Mwaura said.

However, the government spokesman warned that the drug should not be misunderstood as a license for risky behaviour.

“This is a significant medical advancement. However, this does not mean people should become reckless, thinking they are completely immune to HIV, AIDS, or other infections like STIs,” Mwaura cautioned.

The first phase of the national rollout is scheduled to begin in early March 2026. Kenya received 21,000 starter doses in mid-February, with additional shipments expected soon.

The initial rollout will prioritise 15 high-burden counties: Mombasa, Kilifi, Machakos, Nairobi, Kajiado, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii and Kiambu.

“The injectable will be provided free of charge at designated public health facilities and NASCOP-supported sites,” he said.

Eligible individuals have been urged to visit their nearest health facility for screening and administration by qualified healthcare workers.

The injectable has been approved by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and endorsed by the World Health Organisation.

Mwaura said the breakthrough positions Kenya among the first African nations to deploy the cutting-edge prevention tool.

He added that the government encourages all eligible Kenyans, especially those at substantial risk, to take advantage of the innovation as the country accelerates progress toward ending new HIV infections and achieving universal health coverage.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable PrEP administered twice a year.

Health officials say it offers a new prevention option for individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection, particularly those who struggle with adherence to daily oral medication.

The six-monthly injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) was launched at Riruta Health Centre in Nairobi.

Kenya received 21,000 doses in early February, financed by the Fund for Sh370 million ($2.9 million).

Health prevention and treatment officials said the injectable option is expected to improve adherence because people struggle with daily oral tablets used to prevent HIV, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

The injection has already been introduced in Zambia, eSwatini, and Zimbabwe.