Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe Gears Up for Nationwide Rollout of Twice-Yearly HIV Jab
[263Chat] Zimbabwe is preparing to roll out lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention medicine, nationwide from January 2027 after strong demand during its pilot programme.
Zimbabwe is set to begin nationwide distribution of a twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention medication called lenacapavir starting in January 2027, following a successful pilot program. Since February, approximately 4,700 individuals have initiated the treatment at 12 sites, with around 500 new users registering each week. Health Ministry AIDS and TB unit director Dr. Owen Mugurungi stated that demand for the vaccine far exceeded expectations, with the initial 2,000-dose supply depleted within two weeks.
The Ministry has since focused on assisting existing users while preparing for broader national access.
Dr. Mugurungi explained that the popularity of lenacapavir is due to its convenient administration schedule of one injection every six months, or two injections per year. Women have shown particular interest in the drug, and it is also attracting individuals who have never used HIV prevention medications before. Zimbabwe has received 23,000 doses of lenacapavir, with an additional 20,000 anticipated through US-funded support.
The health minister revealed that Zimbabwe is investigating pharmacy and outreach programs to expand the service beyond traditional clinic settings. However, he cautioned that Zimbabwe will require alternative funding sources once the US-backed supplies are exhausted. AllAfrica, which publishes around 600 reports daily from various sources, covered this story, ensuring accurate reporting of the facts.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
