by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – SOUTH Africa has marked a significant milestone in its fight against HIV/AIDS with the arrival of its first two shipments of the long-acting prevention injection, Lenacapavir, imported from Ireland.
The twice-yearly injectable treatment is designed to prevent HIV transmission among people at high risk, offering a transformative alternative to daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
Health experts believe the introduction of Lenacapavir could significantly improve adherence and expand access to prevention tools, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Confirming the development, Aaron Motsoaledi described the arrival as a major step forward in the country’s public health strategy.
“This is a groundbreaking moment in our ongoing fight against HIV and AIDS. The arrival of Lenacapavir gives us a powerful new tool to protect those most at risk and to reduce new infections across the country,” he said.
South Africa continues to carry one of the world’s largest HIV burdens, making innovations in prevention critical to achieving long-term epidemic control.
The introduction of a biannual injection is expected to address challenges associated with daily medication adherence, particularly among young people and marginalised communities.
Motsoaledi emphasised the importance of expanding prevention options: “We must ensure that no one is left behind in accessing life-saving prevention methods. This injection represents hope, convenience and progress in equal measure.”
Lenacapavir works by inhibiting the HIV capsid, a protein essential for viral replication, thereby preventing the virus from establishing infection in the body.
Its long-acting formulation allows for dosing just twice a year, a feature that public health officials say could dramatically enhance uptake and effectiveness.
The Department of Health is expected to roll out the injection in targeted programmes, prioritising high-risk groups while monitoring its impact and accessibility.
Authorities are also working closely with healthcare providers to ensure proper administration and awareness.
“This is not just a medical breakthrough, but a public health opportunity,” Motsoaledi added. “If we implement it effectively, we can change the trajectory of HIV in South Africa.”
The arrival of Lenacapavir signals a new chapter in HIV prevention, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to leveraging innovation in its efforts to curb the epidemic and protect future generations.
– CAJ News