Uganda officially launched the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in a major step aimed at strengthening HIV prevention efforts across the country. The launch was led by the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, and was attended by key officials including US Embassy Deputy Head of Mission in Uganda Mikael Cleverly, Dr Richard Kabanda representing the Director General of Health Services Prof Charles Olaro, hospital leadership led by Dr Andrew Odur, partners, and Lira City leaders.

Lenacapavir is an injectable PrEP medication administered once every six months, offering a new alternative to the traditional daily oral HIV prevention pills. Health officials say the innovation is expected to significantly improve adherence, especially among individuals who struggle with daily medication routines.

According to the Ministry of Health, the rollout will be implemented in phases, beginning in April with priority given to high HIV burden districts and populations at increased risk of infection. A total of 103 health facilities have already been trained to provide the service in the initial phase, with plans to expand coverage to 300 health facilities nationwide by December 2026.

The introduction of Lenacapavir adds to Uganda’s existing HIV prevention options, including daily oral PrEP and condom use, as part of a broader strategy to reduce new infections. Health authorities note that Uganda continues to register new HIV infections each year, particularly among young women and key populations, making expanded prevention choices a critical component of the national response.

The Ministry of Health emphasized that the introduction of this long-acting injectable option is intended to widen access to HIV prevention services, improve adherence, reduce transmission rates, and strengthen Uganda’s overall HIV response efforts.