The Uganda AIDS Commission has announced a groundbreaking development in HIV prevention, with research showing that the six-monthly injection Lenacapavir offers 100% protection to HIV-negative individuals against acquiring HIV. Uganda was one of the countries where scientists participated in carrying out this research.
Following the US Food and Drug Administration’s approval of its production and use, Lenacapavir will be made available in Uganda after close consultations with stakeholders and compliance with minimum requirements. The Ministry of Health, working with relevant stakeholders, will undertake several steps to integrate Lenacapavir into Uganda’s HIV prevention program.
These steps include:
- Evaluating and licensing the drug for use in the country
- Updating national HIV prevention guidelines
- Training healthcare providers
- Incorporating Lenacapavir into the essential drugs list
- Revising tools to capture data on its use
Once these steps are completed, Lenacapavir will expand options for individuals at high risk of HIV infection. In the meantime, oral PrEP will continue to be offered at designated facilities.
Uganda remains committed to providing effective and innovative solutions to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The country is also working to make Cabotegravir, another highly effective injectable PrEP, locally available.
The Uganda AIDS Commission’s efforts demonstrate the country’s dedication to combating HIV/AIDS and promoting public health.
