Kenya has moved closer to widening its HIV prevention arsenal following a landmark regulatory recommendation for the use of a long-acting HIV prevention drug.

In a statement dated January 9, 2026, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) confirmed that it had approved Lenacapavir tablets and injectable formulations for use as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

The approval follows an extensive scientific review to determine the drug’s safety, quality and effectiveness in line with both local laws and international standards.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale described the move as a significant milestone in Kenya’s public health journey, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring timely access to innovative and life-saving medicines.

Lenacapavir is designed to protect HIV-negative individuals who are at substantial risk of infection. Unlike the widely used daily oral PrEP, the drug’s long-acting formulation allows for administration only twice a year.

Health experts say this could transform HIV prevention by addressing challenges such as pill fatigue, inconsistent use and stigma, which have affected uptake of existing options.

Kenya is among the first African countries to endorse Lenacapavir, a decision that aligns with global public health guidance, including recommendations from the World Health Organization.

The Ministry of Health noted that the drug works by interfering with critical stages of the HIV lifecycle, stopping the virus before infection can take hold.

Preparations for the rollout are already underway through international partnerships, with Kenya prioritised for early access due to confidence in its HIV prevention infrastructure.

Authorities say the focus will be on equitable and responsible distribution, particularly among populations at higher risk.

Once fully introduced, Lenacapavir is expected to complement existing prevention tools such as condoms and daily oral PrEP, strengthening Kenya’s combination prevention approach.

Kenya continues to face a heavy HIV burden, with about 1.4 million people living with the virus. While treatment coverage has improved significantly, thousands of new infections and AIDS-related deaths are still recorded annually, underscoring the need for innovative prevention strategies.