Zimbabwe Launches Groundbreaking HIV Prevention Injection.

By Hamu Madzedze

Online Health and Gender Editor

Zimbabwe has launched Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking HIV prevention injection administered twice a year, offering a powerful new tool in the fight against HIV. The launch took place in Epworth, Harare, and is expected to target over 46,000 high risk individuals across 24 sites nationwide.

Health Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora emphasized the government's commitment to protecting life and ending AIDS as a public health threat.

"Today marks an important day in Zimbabwe's national response to HIV as we gather here to launch Lenacapavir - a long-acting injectable option for HIV prevention - and to show our commitment to protecting life and ending AIDS as a public health threat."said Dr Mombeshora

The National AIDS Council(NAC) CEO Dr Bernard Madzima, NAC CEO, stated that the launch represents a new era in HIV prevention innovation, bringing Zimbabwe closer to achieving epidemic control and ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora during his tour of stands as he was preparing to officially launch the Lenacapavir

"The introduction of Lenacapavir is a game-changer in our fight against HIV, offering a convenient and effective way to prevent new infections."highlighted Dr Madzima

Meanwhile US Deputy Chief of Mission, Phil Nervig, described Lenacapavir as a groundbreaking medical innovation supported by American scientific expertise. Imelda Mahaka, Pangaea Zimbabwe Director, highlighted the importance of awareness and education as new technologies emerge, noting that greater choice empowers individuals to select prevention methods suited to their lifestyles.

Zimbabwe's Minister of Health Dr Douglas Mombeshora during the official launch of Lenacapavir in Epworth

Lenacapavir has been rolled out in several countries, including Zambia, Eswatini, and the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed the introduction of Lenacapavir, citing its potential to significantly reduce new HIV infections, particularly among high-risk populations.

In July 2025, the WHO released guidelines on the use of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention, paving the way for national implementation. The US government has pledged to support access to Lenacapavir for about 271,000 people over the next three years, potentially preventing 9,000 new HIV infections.

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