Uganda has received its first consignment of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection administered twice a year, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to curb new infections.
An initial shipment of 19,200 doses of the drug arrived in the country this week, following its approval for use by the National Drug Authority (NDA) in January. The consignment was donated by the Global Fund.
Lenacapavir demonstrated high effectiveness as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in clinical trials conducted among adolescent girls and young women in Uganda and South Africa.
Following the trial results, Uganda was earmarked to receive a donation valued at $1.1 million from the Global Fund, placing it among the first countries to benefit from the rollout of donated doses.
The ministry of Health has indicated that distribution will begin in March, targeting high-burden and high-incidence districts. However, even as preparations for rollout gather pace, activists have raised concerns about the adequacy of supply and long-term access.
In earlier interviews with URN, Kuraish Mubiru, executive director of Uganda Young Positives, warned that the Global Fund donation would cover only about 10,000 individuals, a figure he described as far below national demand, given that Uganda records an estimated 1,000 new HIV infections each week.
Flavia Kyomukama, executive director of the National Forum of People Living with HIV/AIDS Networks in Uganda (NAFOPHANU), said while the United States government has pledged an additional 200,000 doses, Uganda must also commit domestic resources to ensure sustainable access for those most at risk.
Kyomukama noted that Lenacapavir is intended for individuals at the highest risk of infection, including sex workers, boda boda riders, long-distance truck drivers and people in HIV-discordant relationships.
She emphasised the need for clear public communication to prevent misuse or inappropriate demand once the drug is rolled out.
Uganda has previously introduced Cabotegravir, another long-acting injectable PrEP option, which requires two initial injections four weeks apart, followed by doses every two months.
In contrast, Lenacapavir is administered only twice a year, offering a more convenient alternative for individuals who struggle with daily oral PrEP or frequent clinic visits.
The Global Fund plans to supply a total of 36,000 doses to nine health facilities in the first quarter of 2026 as part of the phased rollout.
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