Kenya is set to launch a significant new HIV-prevention medication, lenacapavir, in March across 15 priority regions, as announced by the health ministry recently. This innovative treatment, administered just twice a year, has demonstrated an impressive efficacy, reducing the risk of HIV transmission by over 99.9%. It is important to note that lenacapavir is classified as a chemical drug rather than a vaccine, as it does not work by training the immune system.
Kenya is among nine African nations selected for the introduction of lenacapavir, following its rollout in South Africa, Eswatini, and Zambia since December. The World Health Organization reports that eastern and southern Africa account for approximately 52% of the 40.8 million individuals living with HIV globally, highlighting the critical need for effective preventive measures in these regions.
The health ministry revealed that Kenya received its first shipment of 21,000 doses on Tuesday, facilitated through an agreement with lenacapavir’s manufacturer, Gilead Sciences, and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS. Health Minister Aden Duale stated that the initial phase of implementation will commence in early March, covering 15 counties. Additionally, he noted that Kenya is expecting to receive another 12,000 continuation doses by April.
In an encouraging development, the U.S. government has pledged to provide Kenya with 25,000 additional doses of lenacapavir, as the nation grapples with an HIV prevalence rate of 3.7%. This partnership is particularly vital as many African countries are facing aid cuts that have affected their HIV/AIDS initiatives.
Adding to this support, Kenya signed a groundbreaking $2.5 billion health aid agreement with the U.S. in December. This arrangement is significant as it is the first bilateral agreement made since Donald Trump’s administration made changes to USAID, affecting non-governmental organizations involved in health programs. Under this agreement, the U.S. will contribute $1.6 billion over five years to assist Kenya in addressing health challenges, including HIV/AIDS and malaria, along with efforts to prevent polio. Kenya is also expected to contribute an additional $850 million and gradually increase its responsibility in managing these health issues.
Despite this promising progress, the agreement has faced legal challenges from a Kenyan senator, citing concerns over multiple constitutional violations. Nonetheless, the introduction of lenacapavir marks a hopeful step forward in combating HIV in Kenya, potentially improving the lives of countless individuals affected by the virus.