deshola Africa has begun administering a groundbreaking HIV-prevention injection that offers more than 99.9 percent protection, marking one of the most significant advances in the continent’s fight against the virus.
The twice-yearly shot, called Lenacapavir, is being introduced in countries including South Africa, Eswatini and Zambia. Health authorities say the long-acting injection could dramatically improve prevention efforts by replacing daily PrEP pills, which many people struggle to take consistently.
Although the drug currently costs about $28,000 per year in the United States, the manufacturer has pledged a no-profit supply of two million doses for low and middle income countries over three years. Global partners have also secured agreements for generic versions by 2027, which could reduce the cost to as low as $40 annually.
Experts, however, warn that supply remains far below demand in Africa, the region with the highest HIV burden. They emphasise that while the injection provides near-complete protection, it is not a cure and should be used alongside safer-sex practices.
Public-health officials describe the launch as a major milestone that could significantly reduce new infections if distribution expands and access improves across the continent.
