Secunda: President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to launch the roll-out of the lifesaving HIV prevention injectable medicine, Lenacapavir, later this week.
According to South African Government News Agency, Lenacapavir is administered via injection twice a year, offering patients six months of continuous protection per dose and a welcome relief from daily pills or the bi-monthly injections. This initiative marks a significant milestone in South Africa's ongoing efforts to fight against HIV/AIDS and aims to enhance prevention of new HIV infections.
Lenacapavir is highlighted as a twice-yearly long-acting injectable option for HIV prevention. The rollout underscores the collaboration between the government, civil society, private sector, and development partners amongst the stakeholders committed to ending HIV as a public health threat in South Africa. The Presidency emphasized the importance of this collaboration in a statement.
Health Minister, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu, Provincial Health MECs, and leaders of SANAC civil society, along with development partners and donors, including the Global Fund, are expected to attend the launch. The event will take place at the Lilian Ngoyi Stadium at Secunda in Mpumalanga on Friday.