The introduction of a new HIV prevention injection that is taken only twice a year is expected to significantly reduce missed PrEP doses and enable more people to protect themselves against HIV. This is according to KZN Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane.
Speaking at a community engagement at Amajuba District in December, as part of the Isibhedlela Kubantu outreach programme, MEC Simelane said the long-acting injectable, known as Lenacapavir and branded in the province as “uLena: Ihawu Lakho Lokuzivikela kwi-HIV”, addresses one of the biggest challenges in HIV prevention – daily pill adherence.
“For many people, taking a pill every day may be a challenge because of busy lives, stigma, forgetfulness or fear of disclosure. A twice-a-year injection therefore makes it much easier not to miss doses and to stay protected,” said MEC Simelane.
She said the innovation will allow more people, particularly young women, key populations and mobile workers, to benefit from HIV prevention in a way that fits their realities.
“This means more consistent protection, fewer new infections, and healthier communities,” she added.
The MEC stressed that Lenacapavir does not replace existing HIV prevention methods such as daily oral PrEP, condoms and behavioural interventions, but complements them by expanding choice.
“The more options people have, the more likely they are to protect themselves. This is how we close the gap in HIV prevention,” she said.
MEC Simelane also used the platform to highlight the importance of uninterrupted treatment for people living with HIV, urging those who had defaulted to return to care through the Department’s “Close the Gap” Campaign, especially during the festive season when treatment interruptions are common.
Alongside HIV prevention, the MEC called on communities to take cancer screening seriously, particularly for prostate cancer, cervical cancer and breast cancer, which remain among the most common and deadliest cancers in the province.
“We want men to come forward for prostate screening, women to attend cervical and breast cancer screening, and families to support early testing. Early detection is extremely important as it saves lives,” she said.
Through the Isibhedlela Kubantu programme, communities received access to a range of services including HIV and TB testing, blood pressure and diabetes screening, cancer screening referrals, eye and dental care, immunisation, and health education.
MEC Simelane said the Lenacapavir Awareness Campaign and Roadshow will continue across the province ahead of the phased rollout of the twice-yearly injectable PrEP option in February 2026. This will take place alongside intensified efforts to expand cancer screening and early detection services.
