Kenyans To Pay Sh6,000 Per Shot For The New HIV Prevention Jab

Kenyans will soon have access to a revolutionary HIV prevention injection that costs Sh6,000 per dose and provides six months of protection, the government announced this week.

Andrew Mulwa, Head of the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NASCOP), revealed that Lenacapavir will be available starting January 2026, marking a significant breakthrough in HIV prevention efforts.

The twice-yearly injection offers a more convenient alternative to daily oral PrEP pills, which many struggle to maintain consistently.

“This is a big leap for our HIV prevention efforts,” said Dr. Mulwa. “The injectable is easier to administer and track, and we’re working on the rollout modalities.”

The World Health Organization endorsed Lenacapavir on July 14, highlighting its 99 percent efficacy rate in preventing HIV transmission.

Unlike daily pills that can be stigmatizing and difficult to remember, the subcutaneous injection administered in the abdominal area provides discreet, long-lasting protection.

Kenya joins eight other African countries selected to receive the drug through programs funded by global health partners including the Global Fund, Tiko Africa, and UNAIDS.

The initiative prioritizes adolescent girls and young women at high risk of HIV infection across Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Uganda, and Eswatini.

For vulnerable groups like sex workers, the injection represents a game-changer.

Everly Nabwire, who leads a sex worker initiative in Mombasa serving over 1,000 women, described daily pills as “stressful and stigmatizing.”

Many forget their medication, especially after night shifts, while others face judgment from clients when seen taking pills.

However, cost remains a significant barrier. While the Global Fund negotiates reduced prices for early adopter countries, private access could cost up to $60 per injection. Most sex workers struggle to afford even Sh100 for pills at pharmacies, raising concerns about accessibility.

With Kenya ranking seventh globally in HIV burden and 1.4 million people living with the virus, the injectable offers hope for reducing new infections.

The Global Fund plans to supply at least 2 million doses globally, primarily targeting sub-Saharan Africa where HIV incidence remains highest.

As Kenya prepares for the rollout, health officials are finalizing eligibility criteria while ensuring the breakthrough prevention tool reaches those who need it most.