South Africa’s Cabinet has confirmed plans to introduce a long-acting HIV prevention drug, Lenacapavir, from March or April 2026 in high-risk districts.

Following its meeting last week, Cabinet described Lenacapavir as “a revolutionary long-acting HIV prevention drug that offers protection for six months with just two annual doses.” The rollout will focus on 23 high-incidence districts across six provinces, targeting about 360 high-performing public clinics in those areas.

Officials said the initiative “will further bolster government’s fight against HIV and Aids and support the goal of reducing new HIV infections to below 0.1% by 2032.”

Health planners added that the twice-yearly regimen would improve adherence and reach priority populations through clinics already showing strong results. The programme forms part of a broader prevention strategy under the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs, which includes expanded testing and treatment services.