28/11/2025
Zim Gears Up for Lenacapavir Rollout
The long-acting injectable HIV prevention medicine, Lenacapavir, is due to arrive in the country in January 2026.
Addressing journalists in Harare today, the Health Minister, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, said this groundbreaking medication, which requires only two injections per year, will be provided to all eligible patients free of charge, aligning with the nation's policy of offering all HIV medications at no cost.
“This drug was very expensive, but because discussions have taken place, the company which is producing the drug has agreed to lower the cost to a level where it will cost US$40 per year, which becomes very affordable. Remember, it’s only two doses per year.
“Our rollout plan is now completely in order. Some trainings have been done for the medical staff, and sites for the rollout have been identified. Hopefully, in January, we will receive those doses and start the program.
“All our HIV programs are free, so this preventive drug will also be administered for free for those who will be enrolled in the rollout program,” said Dr. Mombeshora.
The drug, which was approved by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) on November 22, 2025, following a swift 23-day expedited review due to its critical public health importance, will be targeting vulnerable populations in the country.
“This medicine is intended for people at substantial risk of acquiring HIV, including adolescent girls and young women, pregnant and breastfeeding women, key populations, and mobile workers,” added the Minister.
Lenacapavir offers a major advantage over traditional daily prevention pills by requiring only two injections annually, a feature the Minister said would directly address challenges of adherence and the stigma associated with frequent clinic visits.
“As Government, we emphasize that Lenacapavir is an additional layer of protection in our HIV prevention toolkit.
“It does not replace the traditional and proven ABC pillars of prevention, A for Abstinence, B for Being Faithful to one partner, and C for Correct and Consistent Condom Use.
“Lenacapavir must not be seen as a license or visa to engage in risky behaviour. Sexually transmitted infections and other communicable diseases remain prevalent, and Lenacapavir does not protect against them. Responsible behaviour, guided by the ABC principles, remains central to safeguarding personal and public health,” said the Minister.
The new twice-yearly injectable drug is seen as essential to closing prevention gaps and accelerating the nation’s progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, aligning “squarely with the country’s goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.”
