Zimbabwe has officially launched lenacapavir (LEN), a groundbreaking injectable HIV prevention method developed in the United States, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fight against HIV and AIDS.
The innovative medication, developed by American scientists at Gilead Sciences, is now available at hospitals and public health clinics across Zimbabwe. The rollout follows its introduction in Zambia and Eswatini last year through partnerships supported by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
Lenacapavir represents a major advancement in HIV prevention. Unlike daily oral prevention methods, LEN is administered as an injection just twice a year—once every six months—making it one of the most convenient prevention options currently available.
Health officials report that LEN is more than 96 percent effective in preventing HIV infection. The medication is safe for individuals weighing at least 35 kilograms who are HIV negative, including pregnant and breastfeeding women. In Zimbabwe, it will be provided free of charge at public health facilities.
Public health experts say the reduced dosing schedule could significantly improve adherence, privacy, and overall access to prevention services—key factors in reducing new HIV infections.
The nationwide rollout builds on decades of collaboration between the United States and Zimbabwe in combating HIV and AIDS. Through continued U.S. government foreign assistance and coordination with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care, the initiative aims to strengthen the country’s health systems while expanding access to cutting-edge prevention tools.
Speaking at the national launch event, Deputy Chief of Mission Phil Nervig emphasized the importance of innovation in achieving long-term public health goals. “We are proud to bring this American breakthrough to communities across Zimbabwe,” he said, highlighting LEN as a world-class innovation driving progress toward an HIV-free generation.
At Epworth Overspill Clinic, U.S. Ambassador Pamela Tremont witnessed the new prevention method being administered, describing it as a powerful example of American scientific excellence supporting global health efforts.
Zimbabwe continues to make strides in controlling HIV, but prevention remains critical to ending the epidemic. Officials say introducing long-acting prevention methods like lenacapavir will help remove barriers related to daily pill regimens, stigma, and access challenges.
Through sustained collaboration, investment in innovation, and community engagement, both governments expressed confidence that the expanded availability of LEN will help accelerate progress toward achieving an HIV-free generation in Zimbabwe.
