Kenya has taken a major step forward in the fight against HIV after Riruta Health Center became the first facility in the country to administer Lenacapavir, the world’s first long-acting injectable HIV prevention drug, free of charge.
The historic launch saw 27-year-old Samson Mutua become the first Kenyan to receive the groundbreaking medication, marking a new chapter in the country’s HIV prevention efforts.
A Game-Changer in HIV Prevention
Lenacapavir, an American-made and manufactured drug, has been saving lives in the United States since June 2025.
The medication represents a significant breakthrough in HIV prevention due to its long-acting injectable formulation, reducing the need for daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) pills.
The U.S. government is now providing the drug to ten countries globally, including Kenya, in a move aimed at strengthening global HIV prevention strategies and reducing new infections.
MoH Leads Rollout
The launch at Riruta Health Center was spearheaded by Kenya’s Ministry of Health as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat.
By introducing Lenacapavir into the national HIV prevention program, the Ministry aims to improve adherence through long-acting protection, expand prevention options for high-risk population, reduce new HIV infections nationwide and strengthen Kenya–U.S. health partnerships.
Why Lenacapavir Matters
Unlike traditional daily HIV prevention pills, Lenacapavir is administered as an injection that offers extended protection, making it particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with daily medication adherence.
Public health experts say the introduction of long-acting injectable HIV prevention could significantly reduce transmission rates, especially among young people and key populations most at risk.
For 27-year-old Samson Mutua, becoming the first recipient symbolizes hope for thousands of Kenyans seeking safer, more convenient HIV prevention options.
The rollout also highlights growing health collaboration between Kenya and the United States.
By making Lenacapavir available free-of-charge, the program ensures equitable access to cutting-edge HIV prevention technology.
Kenya joins nine other countries benefiting from the U.S.-supported initiative, positioning the country at the forefront of HIV prevention innovation in Africa.
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