Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has confirmed plans to launch a powerful new HIV prevention jab, lenacapavir, in March 2026.
The injection, taken only twice a year, could transform South Africa’s response to HIV by offering long-term protection with fewer clinic visits.
Unveiled at a national roundtable on 14 October, the rollout begins with 360 clinics in 23 high-risk districts, backed by a US$29 million Global Fund grant. That’s enough for 456,000 people to receive 912,000 doses in two years.
Clinical trials showed near-perfect results: 100% protection in women and 96% in other key groups. Motsoaledi said lenacapavir is easier to use than daily pills and suits people’s lifestyles better. It’s especially aimed at groups hit hardest by HIV: pregnant women, young girls, sex workers, and men who have sex with men.
The World Health Organisation already supports its use. If scaled up to millions, this jab could help South Africa get closer to ending HIV by 2030.
