KAMPALA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Friday launched the rollout of Lenacapavir, a new long-acting HIV prevention injection, to complement existing HIV prevention methods.
Speaking at the national launch in Lira District in northern Uganda, Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng described the move as a major milestone in the country's efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
"The introduction of Lenacapavir marks a historic step in expanding effective HIV prevention choices for our population," Aceng said.
In a statement issued here, the health ministry said that the drug, administered once every six months, has demonstrated high effectiveness in preventing HIV acquisition when used as prescribed.
According to the ministry, the rollout will be implemented in phases, initially targeting high-risk and priority groups, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, fishermen, and long-distance truck drivers. The drug will be provided free of charge to these groups.
The ministry cautioned that while Lenacapavir helps prevent HIV infection, it does not protect against pregnancy or other sexually transmitted infections.
Uganda received an initial consignment of 19,200 doses of Lenacapavir in February with support from the Global Fund. The country is expected to receive a total of 94,560 doses, targeting at least 47,280 people as part of efforts to strengthen HIV prevention.
According to the ministry, Uganda has made significant progress in reducing new HIV infections, from 96,000 in 2010 to about 37,000 by the end of 2025. However, challenges remain, particularly among adolescent girls, young women, and other high-risk populations affected by social and economic barriers. ■
