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Zimbabwe to roll out free HIV prevention injections
37 mins ago |
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The Ministry of Health and Child Care has announced that Zimbabwe will begin administering Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV prevention medicine, to eligible beneficiaries at no cost starting January 2026. The government will access the drug at a subsidised rate of US$40 per year for the two annual doses.
Minister of Health, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, described the medication as "groundbreaking," noting that it requires only two injections per year and aligns with Zimbabwe's policy of providing all HIV medicines free of charge. "This drug was very expensive, but discussions with the manufacturer have reduced the cost to a level where it is very affordable," he said.
Lenacapavir, approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) on November 22, 2025, will target populations at substantial risk of HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women, pregnant and breastfeeding women, key populations, and mobile workers.
The Minister highlighted that the injectable offers a major advantage over daily oral prevention pills, addressing challenges of adherence and the stigma associated with frequent clinic visits. Dr. Mombeshora emphasised that Lenacapavir is an additional layer of protection and does not replace the ABC pillars of HIV prevention: Abstinence, Being faithful to one partner, and Correct and Consistent Condom Use.
He cautioned that the medication should not be viewed as a license for risky sexual behaviour, noting that sexually transmitted infections and other communicable diseases remain prevalent.
Lenacapavir is expected to play a critical role in closing HIV prevention gaps in Zimbabwe and accelerating progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, supporting the nation's goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Minister of Health, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, described the medication as "groundbreaking," noting that it requires only two injections per year and aligns with Zimbabwe's policy of providing all HIV medicines free of charge. "This drug was very expensive, but discussions with the manufacturer have reduced the cost to a level where it is very affordable," he said.
Lenacapavir, approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) on November 22, 2025, will target populations at substantial risk of HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women, pregnant and breastfeeding women, key populations, and mobile workers.
He cautioned that the medication should not be viewed as a license for risky sexual behaviour, noting that sexually transmitted infections and other communicable diseases remain prevalent.
Lenacapavir is expected to play a critical role in closing HIV prevention gaps in Zimbabwe and accelerating progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, supporting the nation's goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
Source - The Chronicle
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