Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare-Herald Correspondent
The rollout of the long‑acting HIV prevention injection Lenacapavir is a breakthrough that could transform protection for people at high risk of infection, communities and civil society organisations have said.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care on Thursday officially launched the twice‑yearly injectable pre‑exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), positioning it as a critical tool to close remaining prevention gaps despite Zimbabwe’s progress in surpassing the UNAIDS 95‑95‑95 treatment targets.
Community leaders say the innovation could ease the daily burden associated with oral PrEP, particularly for mobile and marginalised groups.
Springs of Life Zimbabwe programmes coordinator, Ms Precious Msindo, said the introduction of Lenacapavir was a major step for sex workers who often struggle with adherence due to stigma and unstable working conditions.
“For many of the women we work with, taking a pill every day is not just about discipline — it is about safety and privacy.
“An injection taken twice a year reduces the risk of exposure, missed doses and unwanted disclosure. It gives women control,” Ms Msindo said.
She added that community education would be critical to address myths and misinformation.
National chairperson of the Zimbabwe National Network of TB Survivors, Mr Stanley Sibanda, said the development also signalled progress in integrated disease‑prevention efforts.
“HIV and TB are closely linked. Any intervention that prevents new HIV infections ultimately reduces future TB cases.
“We welcome innovations that strengthen prevention and reduce long‑term pressure on families and the health system,” Mr Sibanda said.
Sex workers who attended the launch said the injectable option offered renewed hope.
Viola Mafuwu said daily medication was often difficult to manage in environments where clients or partners might question tablets. “Sometimes you hide the pills. Sometimes you skip because you are travelling. If I can protect myself for six months with one injection, that is peace of mind,” she said.
Esna Chinenyanga said access must remain free and stigma‑free.
“It will only work if clinics treat us with respect. We need services that are confidential and friendly,” she said.
Health officials have indicated that Phase One of the rollout will prioritise people at substantial risk, with trained health workers already deployed in selected districts.
Civil society groups say their focus now shifts to awareness campaigns to ensure communities understand how the injection works and where it is available.
For many on the margins, the success of the new prevention tool will not be measured in policy statements, but in safer lives and fewer new infections.
