Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has announced plans to roll out the HIV prevention jab, lenacapavir, in March 2026.
Lenacapavir (or LEN) is an injection taken just twice a year, offering six months of continuous HIV protection with each dose—making it a simpler option compared to daily pills or bi-monthly shots.
With its long-lasting effect, Lenacapavir could transform HIV prevention in South Africa by cutting down on routine clinic visits.
Unveiled at a national roundtable on 14 October, the rollout begins with 360 clinics in 23 high-risk districts, backed by a US$29 million Global Fund grant. That’s enough for 456,000 people to receive 912,000 doses in two years.
Clinical trials showed near-perfect results: 100% protection in women and 96% in other key groups.
Motsoaledi said lenacapavir is easier to use than daily pills and better fits people’s lifestyles—especially for high-risk groups like pregnant women, young girls, sex workers, and men who have sex with men.
According to Health Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi…
“Lenacapavir will be empowering for populations that have been underserved by existing prevention options: adolescent girls and young women, men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, sex workers, and pregnant and breastfeeding women, amongst others. Our goal is to integrate Lenacapavir into our prevention programs so 6 that these groups, and indeed anyone at substantial risk of HIV, have the choice of a long-acting injectable PrEP if it suits their needs.”
Motsoaledi also noted that the first batch supply will be limited and must be managed strategically.
The World Health Organisation already supports its use. If scaled up to millions, this jab could help South Africa get closer to ending HIV by 2030.
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