Zimbabwe is set to begin administering a long-acting HIV prevention injection to tens of thousands of people early next year, in what health officials say could mark a major step forward in the fight against new infections.
The country plans to roll out Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injectable drug, to at least 46,500 people as part of the first phase of a national prevention programme starting in early 2026.
Gertrude Ncube, Zimbabwe’s national HIV prevention coordinator, said preparations were already in place, with the first shipment of the drug expected to arrive in January. She told the state-run Herald newspaper that 40 health facilities had been identified for the initial rollout and staff had already received training.
“We are now ready to implement once the doses arrive,” she said.
Lenacapavir offers protection against HIV for six months with a single injection, providing an alternative to daily oral prevention pills. Health experts say many people at high risk of infection struggle to take tablets consistently, reducing their effectiveness. The injectable option is expected to improve adherence and long-term prevention outcomes.
Officials say the drug could be particularly beneficial for adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and other groups who face a higher risk of HIV infection. Zimbabwe continues to make progress in reducing new cases, but prevention remains a key challenge, especially among younger populations.
The first phase of the programme will focus on districts with high HIV incidence and rising numbers of new infections. These include major cities such as Harare and Bulawayo, as well as Gweru, Masvingo, Mutare and Chitungwiza. Several rural and mining areas, including Karoi, Mazowe, Tsholotsho, Kwekwe, Shamva and Gwanda, have also been prioritised.
Health authorities say the programme will be expanded nationwide in later phases as more doses become available. The rollout forms part of Zimbabwe’s broader strategy to reduce new HIV infections and strengthen prevention options alongside testing, education and treatment programmes.
