Lenacapavir: A Game-Changer in Kenya’s HIV Prevention Journey

In low-income countries, HIV has often wreaked havoc in communities, breaking up homes and societal fabric as a result, mostly due to misconceptions and stigmatization, besides the related health issues.

However, the introduction of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention, in countries such as Kenya, marks a significant step in Africa’s response to the epidemic.

According to the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council, as of late 2025, Kenya reports approximately 1.4 million people living with HIV, with 20,105 new infections in 2025 (13,236 females, 6,869 males) and a 3% national prevalence rate.

While new infections dropped significantly over the last decade, 2025 data show a concerning rise in mother-to-child transmission (over 9%) and a high burden among youth aged 15-34.

For many years, prevention relied on daily oral PrEP tablets, before the introduction of long-acting options requiring injections every two months. With the new drug, an injection that can protect for up to six months at a time.

That shift, from daily dosing to twice-yearly administration, has the potential to significantly improve adherence and convenience for people at substantial risk of HIV, according to Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO, Amref Health Africa.

He further highlights that pricing has been a defining issue as it has redefined global health equity.

“While costs in high-income markets have been significantly higher at about $40,000 per person per year, negotiated agreements supported by the Global Fund, working in partnership with governments such as Kenya, have enabled access for eligible countries at approximately USD 40,” he says.

Health experts say the preventative intervention is designed for individuals who are HIV-negative and at substantial risk of HIV exposure due to their circumstances, environment, or social vulnerabilities, and eligibility will follow national guidelines, requiring appropriate HIV testing and screening before initiation.

“While it offers highly effective protection, it complements rather than replaces other prevention strategies. Safe sexual practices, including correct and consistent condom use, remain important components of comprehensive HIV prevention,” says Dr. Githinji.

However, he adds that for the adoption to be a success, clear, trusted communication and community engagement will be critical, and Community Health Workers (CHWs) will be foundational, providing accurate, accessible information to address misconceptions and fears.

The CHWs will also help identify individuals who may be eligible, supporting referrals to health facilities and reminding clients to return for follow-up injections.

At approximately USD 40 per person per year under negotiated agreements, where international partners such as the Global Fund are playing a key role in supporting the introduction and early financing, the intervention is relatively affordable compared to many other specialised health technologies.

However, Dr. Githinji highlights that sustainability cannot rely solely on external funding.

“African governments must begin integrating financing for long-acting prevention into domestic health budgets over time,” he says, adding that sustained financing, local capacity building, policy alignment, and supply chain strengthening will determine long-term success.

Long-acting HIV prevention represents a shift in how we think about adherence, convenience, and equity. But innovation alone does not end epidemics.

“The real test will be whether health systems can deliver it effectively through strong Primary Health Care platforms, whether communities trust and understand it, and whether financing models support long-term access,” concludes Dr. Githinji.