Kenya Receives First Shipment of Lenacapavir for HIV Prevention

Kenya has received 21,000 starter doses of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention. The long-acting injectable drug supports pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly known as PrEP.

This delivery marks the first phase of Kenya’s national rollout. Additionally, it reinforces the country’s commitment to innovative HIV prevention.

The shipment arrived through a partnership with the Global Fund. Consequently, Kenya joins other African nations adopting next-generation prevention technologies.

The Ministry of Health expects 12,000 continuation doses by April. These doses will support individuals who begin treatment in phase one.

Furthermore, the United States Government will supply an additional 25,000 doses. Therefore, early implementation efforts will receive a significant boost.

Phased Rollout Across High-Burden Counties

The Ministry of Health will coordinate implementation through NASCOP. Phase one will begin in March 2026 across 15 high-burden counties. Thereafter, two additional phases will expand coverage nationwide.

Officials will guide the rollout using epidemiological data and system readiness. As a result, resources will target areas with the greatest need.

Safety Approval and Regulatory Clearance

Director General for Health Patrick Amoth received the consignment. He reaffirmed Lenacapavir’s safety and global approval status.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug in June 2025. Subsequently, the World Health Organization endorsed it the following month.

In January 2026, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board registered both oral and injectable versions locally.

Affordable and Aligned With UHC Goals

Patients will receive Lenacapavir twice yearly. The annual cost stands at about KES 7,800 per patient. Previously, prices reached nearly USD 42,000 annually. Thus, the reduced cost improves accessibility significantly.

The initiative supports Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage agenda. Moreover, it strengthens efforts to prevent new HIV infections, including mother-to-child transmission.

Officials from the US Embassy–Kenya and Intergovernmental Relations attended the handover ceremony.