New HIV Prevention Pill Gains Popularity Among Youth

Kenya is preparing to roll out a groundbreaking long‑acting HIV prevention pill that is gaining traction among young people, health officials say. The drug, Lenacapavir, offers a discreet and effective alternative to daily oral PrEP — administered just twice a year — and is expected to launch in Kenya by early 2026.
The timing of the rollout is critical: 41 percent of new HIV infections in Kenya occur in people under the age of 24. Health experts believe that Lenacapavir could be a game-changer for young people who struggle with the stigma and daily adherence challenges associated with traditional oral PrEP. Furthermore, a major report showed a 49% drop in PrEP initiation between early 2024 and early 2025 — underscoring the urgent need for new prevention options.
To make the drug more accessible, global partners are supporting Kenya’s national HIV programme. Thanks to a deal involving the Gates Foundation and Unitaid, the cost per person is being lowered significantly, with projections of around KSh 5,400 per year for the twice‑yearly injections. Health authorities say that Kenya has already developed implementation plans and is working with the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP) to ensure a smooth rollout.
Advocates are optimistic that Lenacapavir will expand the reach of HIV prevention among Kenya’s youth, particularly those who are most vulnerable and face adherence or access challenges. By offering an option that requires just two visits per year, the new drug promises to reduce new HIV infections and empower young people with more choice in protecting their health.