Uganda has begun rolling out lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable HIV prevention drug, through 103 public health facilities across the country as part of a national HIV prevention scale-up program led by the Ministry of Health.

The selected health facilities are part of the initial phase of implementation aimed at expanding access to modern HIV prevention methods, particularly for populations at higher risk of infection. The rollout represents one of the country’s most significant recent additions to its HIV prevention toolkit.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) designed for HIV-negative individuals at risk of infection. It is administered by injection and provides protection over an extended period, reducing the need for daily oral medication. Health authorities emphasize that it is strictly a prevention tool and does not treat HIV or cure the disease, nor does it protect against other sexually transmitted infections.

The 103 health facilities involved in the program include selected regional referral hospitals and district-level facilities. These sites were chosen based on HIV burden and existing capacity to deliver HIV-related services. Authorities have described the rollout as phased, meaning availability is being introduced in stages as supply chains, distribution systems, and program capacity are expanded.

The introduction of lenacapavir forms part of Uganda’s broader HIV prevention strategy, which also includes oral PrEP, condom distribution, HIV testing services, and antiretroviral therapy for people living with HIV. Health experts say long-acting injectable prevention methods may improve adherence and reduce barriers associated with daily medication use.

Officials note that the rollout will continue to expand as more resources become available and distribution systems are strengthened. The initial phase focuses on priority facilities and populations as the country integrates the new prevention option into its national HIV response framework.