The Government of Kenya has received 21,000 doses of Lenacapavir Yeztugo, a new long-acting drug designed to prevent HIV infection, becoming the first country in East Africa to take this step.
The announcement was made by Kenya’s Health Minister, Aden Duale, who confirmed that the doses arrived on February 17, 2026.
Targeting High-Risk Areas
The Kenyan government plans to distribute the initial 21,000 doses across 15 counties with high HIV infection rates. An additional 12,000 doses are expected to arrive in April 2026, further expanding access to the preventive medication.
Minister Duale clarified that Lenacapavir does not cure HIV. He urged individuals already living with HIV to continue taking their daily antiretroviral therapy (ART) or receiving prescribed injections to maintain their health.
Developed by Gilead Sciences
Lenacapavir was developed by Gilead Sciences, a United States-based biopharmaceutical company known for producing antiviral treatments.
Clinical trials conducted in multiple countries showed that the drug provides 99.9% protection against HIV infection when administered once every six months. This long-acting approach offers a major improvement over existing preventive options that require daily pills or injections every two months.
In July 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended Lenacapavir for use as part of global HIV prevention efforts.
A Game-Changer in HIV Prevention
Health experts say Lenacapavir represents a breakthrough because of its extended dosing schedule. Unlike traditional pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which requires daily adherence, Lenacapavir is administered only twice a year.
In neighboring Rwanda, Dr. Ikuzo Basile, head of the HIV division at the Rwanda Biomedical Center, previously indicated that Rwanda is also exploring the introduction of Lenacapavir in 2026 if ongoing discussions prove successful.
He noted that the drug could significantly reduce the stress associated with taking daily medication, offering a more convenient and discreet prevention option.
Strengthening the Fight Against HIV
Kenya’s rollout of Lenacapavir marks a significant milestone in the fight against HIV in East Africa. Public health officials believe the introduction of long-acting preventive treatment could help reduce new infections and accelerate progress toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.
Authorities are expected to monitor the program closely as distribution begins in the selected counties.
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