• Through the National AIDS and STIs Control Program (NASCOP), the Ministry will lead a phased rollout guided by epidemiological data and system readiness. Phase one begins in March 2026, targeting 15 high‑burden counties, with subsequent phases expanding coverage countrywide.

On February 17, 2026, Kenya received its first consignment of 21,000 doses of Lenacapavir, a long‑acting injectable PrEP administered twice annually.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the rollout on February 18, positioning Kenya among the first African nations to adopt the innovation. The phased rollout, led by NASCOP, begins in March with 15 high‑burden counties before expanding nationwide.

Officials plan to begin in counties with the highest HIV prevalence before scaling nationwide. “Delivered in partnership with the Global Fund, the shipment marks a milestone in expanding access to next‑generation HIV prevention technologies across Africa,” the Ministry announced.

By April, Kenya expects 12,000 continuation doses to support those already initiated, alongside 25,000 additional doses from the United States Government to strengthen early implementation.

Through the National AIDS and STIs Control Program (NASCOP), the Ministry will lead a phased rollout guided by epidemiological data and system readiness. Phase one begins in March 2026, targeting 15 high‑burden counties, with subsequent phases expanding coverage countrywide.

Read More

  1. GoodPutt Hotel, Nakuru: Where Every Stay Is Truly a 'Good Put'
  2. Lent Meets Ramadan in Rare Calendar Convergence
  3. Parliament Weighs TikTok Regulation as MPs Push for Balanced Approach

Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health, received the consignment and reaffirmed the drug’s safety.

Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health speaking to the Press. (Photo credit: Ministry of Health/X)

Lenacapavir won approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2025, endorsement from the World Health Organization in July 2025, and registration by Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board in January 2026. Administered twice annually, the drug will cost about KES 7,800 per patient per year—a dramatic reduction from the previous USD 42,000 price tag.

The initiative strengthens Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage agenda, bolstering prevention of mother‑to‑child transmission and advancing the national goal of ensuring every child is born HIV‑free. US Embassy representative Brian Rettman and Dr. Ahmed Omar of Intergovernmental Relations witnessed the handover, underscoring international collaboration.

Lenacapavir offers a powerful alternative to daily oral PrEP pills, which often face adherence challenges. With only two injections a year, the drug promises better compliance among youth, sex workers, and other vulnerable populations.

Despite progress in treatment and prevention, Kenya still records thousands of new infections annually. Health professionals believe the injectable PrEP could help the country meet its target of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030.

Stay connected with us on WhatsApp and Facebook for instant updates and breaking news as it happens.