- Zimbabwe is set to roll out Lenacapavir, a breakthrough long-acting HIV prevention injection, targeting 46,000 high-risk individuals.
- The phased rollout, commencing on February 18, will initially focus on Epworth, Harare.
- This initiative positions Zimbabwe as one of the first countries globally to introduce this next-generation prevention tool.
- Lenacapavir is a capsid inhibitor administered via injection only twice a year, offering long-lasting protection against HIV.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care will officially launch the programme, marking a significant shift towards more effective long-acting HIV prevention methods designed to improve adherence and reduce new infections. The initial phase will target high-risk populations, including adolescent girls, young women, sex workers, and men who have sex with men, among others.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Aspect Maunganidze affirmed the rollout as a major milestone, strengthening Zimbabwe’s HIV prevention strategy. Zimbabwe’s selection as one of 10 countries for a global early access programme in August 2025 underscores international confidence in its HIV response capabilities.
Twenty-four sites have been identified for the initial phase across urban centres like Harare, Bulawayo, and Gweru, with nearly 400 health workers already trained.
Timeline
- February 14, 2026: News reports emerge about Zimbabwe’s impending rollout of Lenacapavir.
- February 18, 2026: Official launch and phased rollout of Lenacapavir expected to begin in Epworth, Harare.
- Two weeks prior to Feb 14: First consignment of Lenacapavir arrived in Zimbabwe and cleared for distribution.
Key Players
- Dr. Aspect Maunganidze: Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, confirming the development.
- Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe: Responsible for clearing the first consignment of Lenacapavir.
- High-risk populations: Primary beneficiaries of the injection.
