The U.S. Department of State has announced that lenacapavir, a new HIV prevention medication developed by Gilead Sciences, will soon be introduced in Uganda. Uganda is one of ten countries with high rates of HIV where the drug will be made available through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The program aims to expand global production and distribution of lenacapavir and encourage further investment in HIV prevention.
Lenacapavir, which needs to be taken only twice a year, offers an effective option for people at high risk of contracting HIV. Clinical trials have shown that more than 99% of those who took the medication remained HIV negative. The introduction of this drug is seen as a significant step forward in Uganda’s fight against HIV/AIDS, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
The initiative is a joint effort between the United States and the Ugandan Ministry of Health. The U.S. government, together with the Global Fund—where it serves as the largest donor—is funding an advanced market commitment to purchase lenacapavir for up to two million individuals by 2028 in countries most affected by HIV/AIDS epidemics. Gilead Sciences has agreed to supply lenacapavir at cost and will share its intellectual property with generic manufacturers to allow large-scale production and lower prices, supporting sustainability for local governments.
Ambassador William W. Popp commented on the significance of this development: “This medicine is an excellent example of how American leadership drives innovation to save lives. Collaboration between an American company and researchers right here in Uganda led to a medical breakthrough to reduce new HIV infections in the communities that need it most. This exciting development will accelerate our progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat, building a healthier future for America, Uganda, and the world.”
Plans are underway between the United States and Ugandan authorities to coordinate the rollout of lenacapavir beginning in 2026.
For further details, inquiries can be directed to KampalaPress@state.gov.