Health 20 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Rush for Lenacapavir: High Demand and Strict Access Rules for New HIV Prevention Shot
Uganda has launched lenacapavir, a highly effective long-acting injectable for HIV prevention, with thousands lining up despite limited initial doses. Health officials emphasize screening high-risk groups while integrating it into a broader strategy to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mad-dash-for-new-hiv-drug-what-it-takes-to-access-lenacapavir--5429950
Uganda’s Ministry of Health rolled out lenacapavir, a groundbreaking injectable PrEP drug offering over 99% protection against HIV for six months with just two shots. The launch in Lira City drew long queues, but only select individuals qualify after rigorous screening.
Belmos Gom, a 29-year-old from Lira, became one of the first 15 recipients. After confirming his HIV-negative status and assessing his risk through questions on sexual history, he received the injections in his abdomen. ‘It was quick and painless,’ he shared.
National PrEP trainer Harriet Nangobi noted overwhelming demand but strict criteria. Applicants must test negative and demonstrate substantial risk, such as multiple partners, sex with untreated HIV-positive individuals, injecting drug use, sex between men, or recurrent STIs.
Priority goes to groups like discordant couples, truck drivers, and sex workers, as explained by Dr. Robert Mutumba, head of the AIDS Control Programme. Children mistaking it for a vaccine were turned away, with officials clarifying it’s prophylaxis, not permanent immunity.
The initial 19,200 doses, donated by the Global Fund, are available free at 103 facilities, mainly regional referral hospitals, targeting high-burden areas. Expansion to 300 sites is planned by December 2026, with more doses expected.
Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng hailed it as a ‘game changer’ in cutting new infections from 96,000 in 2010 to 37,000 by 2025. She stressed combining it with abstinence, fidelity, condoms, and testing. Experts warn it doesn’t prevent other STIs or pregnancies, urging responsible behavior.
Access involves HIV testing, risk assessment, oral tablets post-injection, and site choice between belly or thigh.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)