Uganda has received its first consignment of 19,200 doses of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention drug, the Ministry of Health has confirmed.
The shipment — provided through support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria — arrived on February 24, 2026, and marks a major milestone in efforts to reduce new HIV infections in the country.
Lenacapavir is a twice-yearly injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) designed to protect HIV-negative individuals at high risk of infection.
Depending on implementation policies, the doses will go to high-burden and high-incidence districts starting in March 2026.
In its statement on social media, the Ministry said the drug “is administered every six months to prevent HIV among persons with substantial risk of acquiring HIV.”
Plans are underway to prioritise groups most affected by HIV, including young women, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and other vulnerable populations.
Clinical data from trials have shown Lenacapavir can be highly effective in preventing HIV infection when given as directed, offering protection comparable to existing daily PrEP pills but with significantly reduced dosing requirements.
Health officials say the longer-acting nature of the drug may improve adherence and uptake, especially among people who struggle with daily medication routines.
Uganda joins a growing list of African countries introducing this long-acting HIV prevention option. Kenya has also received starter doses and begun phased roll-out plans, signalling regional momentum behind the new approach.
While Lenacapavir is not a cure for HIV, public health experts believe its introduction, alongside traditional PrEP and other prevention tools like condoms and regular testing, could significantly accelerate the continent’s HIV response.
Officials say the initial rollout will focus on districts with the highest HIV incidence rates, with the potential for expanded access depending on demand and future deliveries.
