NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya is preparing to begin the first phase of its Lenacapavir rollout in early March, targeting counties with a high HIV burden and populations at elevated risk of new infections.
Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
It is designed only for people who are HIV-negative but are at substantial risk of contracting HIV. It is not a vaccine and not a treatment for those already living with HIV.
Who Is Eligible?
The Ministry of Health says priority will be given to:
- Young people aged 15–24, who account for 41% of new HIV infections
- Individuals in high-prevalence regions
- People who struggle with daily oral PrEP adherence
- Key and vulnerable populations are at a higher risk of exposure
Before receiving the injection, individuals must undergo HIV testing to confirm they are HIV-negative. Those already living with HIV will continue on anti-retroviral therapy (ART) and are not eligible for Lenacapavir.
The injectable is administered twice a year, offering six months of protection per dose — a major advantage for people who find it difficult to take daily prevention pills consistently.
Which Counties Will Receive It First?
The first phase of implementation will cover 15 counties identified based on HIV prevalence rates and transmission patterns.
The first phase of Lenacapavir rollout will cover 15 counties identified for their high HIV prevalence and elevated transmission risk.
In Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kilifi, urban density and coastal transmission patterns place residents at higher risk, making these counties priority locations for the initial rollout.
Counties in Machakos, Kajiado, Nakuru, and Uasin Gishu represent both growing urban centres and high-prevalence regions where expanding access to prevention services is critical. Similarly, Kakamega, Busia, and Siaya have been targeted due to persistent infection rates and vulnerable populations that would benefit from long-acting PrEP.
Western Kenya counties, including Kisumu, Migori, Homa Bay, and Kisii continue to record some of the country’s highest HIV prevalence levels, making them key areas for intervention.
Kiambu is included to strengthen access in densely populated regions adjacent to Nairobi, ensuring comprehensive coverage across urban and peri-urban communities.
These counties represent both urban centres and high-prevalence regions, particularly in western Kenya and along the coast, where infection rates remain above the national average.
Western counties such as Homa Bay, Siaya, Kisumu and Migori continue to record some of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the country. Nairobi and Mombasa, as major urban hubs, also face higher transmission risks due to population density and mobility.
What Happens Next?
The rollout will happen in phases. After the first 15 counties, a second phase will cover another 15 counties, followed by a final phase reaching the remaining 17 counties to ensure nationwide access over time.
Kenya has already received 21,000 starter doses for the initial rollout, with additional continuation doses expected in April to ensure uninterrupted protection for those who begin treatment.
Health officials say the goal is to expand prevention options, reduce new infections — especially among young people — and accelerate progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat.
Lenacapavir adds a powerful new tool to Kenya’s HIV prevention strategy, offering a discreet, convenient and science-backed option for those most at risk.