Kenya has launched long-acting pre-exposure prophylaxis (Lenacapavir) at Riruta Health Centre, expanding HIV prevention options in line with guidance from the World Health Organization.
The launch was presided over by Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale EGH, accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, and attended by government officials, partners, implementing agencies and community representatives. Samson received the first injection, marking the formal rollout of the new prevention option.
Administered twice a year, Lenacapavir provides protection for individuals at ongoing risk of HIV infection. The Ministry of Health confirmed that the medicine has undergone regulatory review and will be provided free of charge in selected facilities across 12 Nairobi sub-counties. Officials emphasised that it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections or prevent pregnancy and should be used alongside other appropriate prevention measures.
In Nairobi, designated facilities include: Riruta Health Centre, Kangemi Health Centre, Baba Dogo Health Centre, Dandora II Health Centre, Kayole II Sub-County Hospital, Langโata Sub-County Hospital, Pumwani Majengo Health Centre, Kware Dispensary, HOYMAS Clinic, BHESP DICE Jogoo Road, Kenyatta National Hospital and Coptic Hospital.
The service is also being rolled out in: Nakuru, Siaya, Migori, Kisumu, Machakos, Kajiado, Homa Bay, Kisii, Busia, Kilifi, Mombasa, Uasin Gishu, Kiambu and Kakamega counties.
Hon. Duale said prevention remains central to Kenyaโs HIV response and that expanding prevention options strengthens informed decision-making. Initial doses have been secured through partner support, with plans to progressively increase domestic financing.
Officials noted that long-acting PrEP complements existing prevention approaches within primary health care, supporting the national goal of ending HIV as a public health threat by 2030. An estimated 1.3 million people in Kenya are living with HIV, according to the Ministry of Health.
