Zimbabwe is set to launch the second phase of its Lenacapavir programme in the third quarter of this year, as health authorities move to widen access to the long-acting HIV prevention injection following strong early uptake and growing demand.
The expansion follows an initial rollout in February this year, where about 46 000 people accessed the twice-yearly injectable across 11 high HIV burden districts.
In an interview with a media yesterday, Health and Child Care Secretary Dr Aspect Maunganidze said the next phase will be guided by data gathered from the pilot programme and will focus on expanding coverage in a structured and sustainable way.
“The next phase of rollout is planned in line with increased supply and will target additional districts and facilities based on HIV burden, equity considerations and potential public health impact,” said Dr Maunganidze.
He added that the programme would continue to build on early lessons to improve efficiency and access.
“This expansion will build on lessons from the initial phase to ensure a more efficient and sustainable scale-up,” he said.
Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences in partnership with the Global Fund, is the world’s first twice-yearly HIV prevention injection and is seen as a game changer in pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programmes.
Zimbabwe was among 10 countries selected for the global early access initiative in 2025 and has since become one of the first African nations to approve and roll out the drug through the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe.
The initial rollout targeted 11 priority districts based on HIV prevalence and readiness of health facilities.
“The rollout is being implemented in a phased manner, starting with 11 priority sites in high HIV incidence districts,” Dr Maunganidze said.
Authorities say the drug has now been fully integrated into Zimbabwe’s broader HIV prevention strategy, which already includes oral PrEP, the injectable Cabotegravir, condoms, and behavioural interventions.
Early results show strong uptake, particularly among women, with increasing participation from men as well.
“Most clients so far are women, but uptake among men is also notable, which is encouraging for a balanced prevention response,” he said.
Health officials say demand has exceeded initial supply, prompting a controlled expansion approach.
“We have experienced high demand relative to the initial limited supply, which is why the rollout is being carefully managed in phases,” he said.
The Ministry says priority will continue to be given to high-risk groups, including adolescent girls and young women, key populations, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and sero-discordant couples.
“Initial sites were deliberately located in high-incidence districts to ensure we reach those most at risk,” Dr Maunganidze said.
Community engagement has also been credited for improving awareness and acceptance of the new prevention option, while government is strengthening logistics and supply systems ahead of the next phase.
