By Eddy Olwa
Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng has launched the rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention drug, at Lira Regional Referral Hospital.
Lenacapavir is an injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) administered once every six months, offering an alternative to daily oral HIV prevention pills.
The Ministry of Health said the rollout will be phased, starting with high-burden districts and people at increased risk of HIV infection.
Phase one begins this April, with 103 health facilities already trained to deliver the service. The Ministry plans to scale up to 300 facilities nationwide by December 2026.
Lenacapavir adds to existing HIV prevention options such as daily oral PrEP and condoms, and is expected to improve adherence, particularly among populations that struggle with daily medication.
Uganda continues to face a significant HIV burden, with new infections still recorded each year, especially among young women and key populations. Health officials say expanding prevention choices is key to reducing new infections.
The Ministry says the introduction of a long-acting option is aimed at widening access to prevention services, reducing transmission, and supporting the country’s broader HIV response.
