AIDS fight breakthrough : Uganda approves twice-yearly HIV prevention injection

Uganda’s National Drug Authority (NDA) has officially approved the use of lenacapavir, a long‑acting injectable HIV prevention medicine, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. In an official post on X (formerly Twitter), the NDA stated, “Uganda’s National Drug Authority has just approved Lenacapavir, a twice‑yearly dose PrEP manufactured by Gilead, a USA based company! This is a game-changer for HIV prevention, especially for those at high risk. This is great step towards ending AIDS by 2030.”

Lenacapavir, developed by U.S.-based pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, is designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and offers a biannual injection as an alternative to daily oral medication. This long-acting formulation addresses challenges with adherence and reduces the burden of routine pill-taking, making it especially beneficial for individuals at elevated risk of HIV infection, including young people, sex workers, and key populations in Uganda.

Uganda continues to face a substantial HIV burden, with thousands of new infections occurring each year. Health officials note that integrating lenacapavir into national prevention strategies could significantly reduce HIV transmission rates and accelerate progress toward the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The approval also reflects a broader regional trend, as countries across sub-Saharan Africa, including South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, are adopting or considering long-acting HIV prevention tools to strengthen public health efforts.

While partnerships with international organizations such as the Global Fund and PEPFAR are expected to support the drug’s rollout and access in Uganda, experts emphasize the importance of sustained investment, strong community engagement, and clear public communication to ensure that all eligible populations benefit from this innovative prevention option. Public health practitioners are optimistic that lenacapavir, administered only twice a year, will improve adherence, expand prevention coverage, and offer a practical solution for people who face barriers to daily medication use.

With its approval, lenacapavir becomes a key addition to Uganda’s HIV prevention toolkit, providing hope for a reduction in new infections and demonstrating the country’s commitment to innovative strategies in the fight against HIV/AIDS.