The U.S. Department of State has unveiled a life-saving advancement, bringing the breakthrough HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, developed by U.S.-based Gilead Sciences, to Uganda.
The U.S. Embassy confirmed that Uganda is one of just ten high-burden HIV countries selected for the distribution of this medication, which will be facilitated through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). This initiative, aimed at scaling production and distribution globally, is poised to save hundreds of thousands of lives. Lenacapavir will be introduced in Uganda in 2026 in partnership with the Ministry of Health.
Lenacapavir is a highly effective and convenient HIV prevention option, requiring only two doses per year, making it a viable solution for individuals at high risk of HIV infection. Clinical trials have shown that more than 99% of individuals using lenacapavir remained HIV negative.
This innovative drug marks a major step forward in Uganda's ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS, particularly for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. The U.S. government, along with the Global Fund, the largest donor to the fund, is co-financing an advanced market commitment to provide lenacapavir for up to 2 million individuals by 2028 in countries with the highest HIV/AIDS burdens. Gilead Sciences has committed to supplying the drug at cost.
Additionally, Gilead will make its intellectual property available to generic manufacturers, enabling large-scale production of the drug at a lower cost, ensuring its sustainability through future local government purchases.
U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, William W. Popp, emphasized the transformative impact of lenacapavir, noting, “This medicine is a prime example of American leadership driving innovation to save lives.
The collaboration between an American company and Ugandan researchers has resulted in a medical breakthrough that will help reduce new HIV infections in the communities that need it most. This marks an exciting milestone in our fight to eliminate HIV as a public health threat, ensuring a healthier future for both America and Uganda."
The United States will continue working closely with the Government of Uganda to finalize a plan for the rollout of this life-saving medication.