The International Community of Women Living with HIV Eastern Africa (ICWEA) has applauded Uganda’s approval of Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable treatment for HIV prevention, calling it a major breakthrough in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The approval, announced by the Uganda National Drug Authority (NDA), is a significant step forward, especially for women and girls who are at high risk of contracting HIV.

Lenacapavir, developed by Gilead Sciences, offers an alternative to daily prevention methods, providing greater privacy and convenience for individuals facing challenges such as stigma or gender-based violence.

In a press release, ICWEA Executive Director Lillian Mworeko expressed that this approval aligns with their advocacy for more diverse prevention options.

She highlighted that Lenacapavir gives individuals the freedom to choose what works best for their bodies and lifestyles.

Mworeko also called on the Ugandan government and international partners to ensure that Lenacapavir is made affordable and accessible across the country, particularly in rural areas, to maximize its impact on HIV prevention efforts.

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