Lesotho receives first batch of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention

Lesotho has officially received its first shipment of Lenacapavir, a groundbreaking HIV prevention drug that marks a historic milestone in the country’s ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. The handover took place in Mafeteng district during a high-level ceremony presided over by the Deputy Prime Minister, Nthomeng Majara, and attended by senior government officials, including the Honourable Minister of Health and the Minister of Finance, as well as key development partners.

Approved by WHO in July 2025, Lenacapavir is the world’s first twice-yearly injectable PrEP option, offering near-complete protection against HIV acquisition. Its introduction is expected to drastically reduce new infections, particularly among adolescent girls, young women, and other vulnerable populations, while easing the adherence challenges associated with daily oral PrEP.

Lesotho continues to face one of the highest HIV burdens globally, with an adult prevalence of 17.1%. Despite this, the country has demonstrated exceptional leadership, ranking among a select group of nations that have surpassed the global 95-95-95 targets by achieving 97%-97%-99%. These achievements reflect strong treatment coverage and viral suppression, which have helped reduce transmission and AIDS-related mortality. However, significant prevention gaps remain.

In her introductory remarks, the Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Maneo Ntene, announced that Lesotho has received 6000 doses of Lenacapavir from the Global Fund, with additional quantities expected in July.

Deputy Prime Minister, Nthomeng Majara highlighted the importance of the new intervention, stating: “Lenacapavir is an important innovation that strengthens our national response to HIV prevention and brings new hope to communities across the country. Over the years, Lesotho’s great strides in the fight against HIV have been made possible through strong partnerships between the government, development, and implementing partners.”

Minister of Finance, Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane, emphasized the continued need for comprehensive prevention: “We are confident that Lenacapavir will help in reducing new HIV infections. However, this should not in any way diminish our efforts in protecting ourselves using other methods.”

Minister of Health, Selibe Mochoboroane, underscored the drug’s role in closing existing prevention gaps and protecting future generations. He cautioned, however, that Lenacapavir does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unintended pregnancies and therefore must be used alongside other protective measures.

WHO Representative, Dr Innocent Nuwagira, commended Lesotho’s progress, noting that the country’s success reflects strong political commitment, sustained investment, and active community engagement. He stated: “Today’s handover reflects scientific progress and global solidarity. Innovation must reach those who need it most, and now. If implemented effectively, Lenacapavir can accelerate epidemic control, protect the next generation, and bring us closer to an AIDS-free future.”

He reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Lesotho in the safe rollout of Lenacapavir, its monitoring, and integration into national prevention programmes: “WHO remains firmly committed to supporting the Ministry of Health in the safe introduction, monitoring, and integration of Lenacapavir, and in accompanying Lesotho on its journey toward a future where every Mosotho can live free from the threat of HIV.”

Ending HIV requires a comprehensive prevention approach, integrating testing, treatment, condom use, voluntary medical male circumcision, behavioural and structural interventions, and both pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP). Lenacapavir strengthens this package by expanding available options and overcoming adherence barriers. As the first twice-yearly injectable PrEP option, it provides nearly complete protection against HIV acquisition.

WHO also called on global health actors and development partners to improve access and ensure that Lenacapavir becomes available in low- and middle-income countries at an affordable and sustainable cost.

Lesotho plans to roll out Lenacapavir in the coming days.