The South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) and the Department of Health are hosting a two-day multi-stakeholder roundtable to evaluate the country’s readiness to roll out Lenacapavir (LEN) — a breakthrough twice-yearly injectable for HIV prevention.
Lenacapavir, endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), is part of a combination HIV prevention strategy and offers a long-acting alternative to daily oral PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) pills. It is administered via injection every six months, providing sustained protection against HIV infection.
“LEN, the first twice-yearly injectable PrEP product, offers a highly effective, long-acting alternative to daily oral pills and other shorter-acting options. With just two doses per year, it is a transformative step forward in protecting people at risk of HIV – particularly those who face challenges with daily adherence, stigma, or access to health care,” said the WHO.
The roundtable brings together key stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector to discuss critical factors such as licensing, funding, equitable access, and community mobilisation to ensure the successful introduction of Lenacapavir in South Africa.
Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale said accelerating the introduction of Lenacapavir is a priority.
“Clinical trials have shown Lenacapavir to be highly effective, providing near-complete protection against HIV infection when administered every six months. It is already in use in the United States, Europe, and Canada for HIV treatment and is now being introduced for prevention in low- and middle-income countries, including South Africa,” said Mohale.
If successfully rolled out, Lenacapavir will strengthen South Africa’s national HIV prevention efforts, offering a more convenient and discreet option for individuals at high risk of infection, and advancing the country’s goal of reducing new HIV infections.