On February 26, 2026, Kenya officially rolled out the use of lenacapavir, an injectable preventive treatment for HIV that is administered twice a year. This new treatment is seen as a major advancement compared to the daily oral pills traditionally used for HIV prevention. With a national prevalence of approximately 3.7%, and higher rates in certain regions reaching up to 10%, the introduction of this injectable treatment was highly anticipated. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended it as an additional option for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), highlighting its potential impact on public health in Kenya.

The initiative starts with a targeted phase involving fifteen counties prioritized for the rollout. Samson Mutua, a 27-year-old delivery man, was the first recipient of the lenacapavir injection at a hospital in Kawangware, Nairobi. Having previously taken PrEP in pill form since 2017, he expresses his excitement over the new treatment option, emphasizing its potential to facilitate safer sexual practices and ultimately reduce the risk of HIV infection.

This significant step in preventative healthcare aligns with Kenya's ongoing efforts to combat the HIV epidemic in the country. By providing a more accessible and user-friendly option for individuals at risk of HIV, the Kenyan government hopes to lower infection rates and improve health outcomes. The launch of lenacapavir signifies not only a medical advancement but a broader commitment to enhancing healthcare and prevention strategies against HIV in light of the country's unique epidemiological challenges.