By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
29 October 2025- The African National Congress (ANC) said it welcomes the approval of Lenacapavir by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), making South Africa the first country in Africa to register this ground-breaking twice-yearly HIV prevention injection.
The ANC said this milestone comes as its nation continues to carry one of the world’s largest HIV burdens with nearly 8 million South Africans living with HIV.
The ANC national spokesperson, Mahlengi Bhengu said while some African countries have higher prevalence rates, the scale of South Africa’s epidemic means that any major prevention breakthrough here has continental significance. Bhengu said Lenacapavir has shown near-complete protection against HIV infection in global trials.
“Supported by a R513 million Global Fund grant, rollout will begin in April 2026, prioritising vulnerable groups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, men who have sex with men and sex workers. The ANC views this as a powerful addition to the government’s ongoing HIV response which combines treatment, testing, prevention, and education to end new infections by 2030.
“The expected arrival of affordable generic versions by 2027 will further expand access and sustainability. The ANC commends the efforts of the South African government led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and calls on the international community, pharmaceutical companies, and global health institutions to ensure the affordability and accessibility of Lenacapavir, not only for South Africa, but for all developing and lesser-privileged countries, particularly across Africa,” she said.
Bhengu further said no lifesaving medicine should remain out of reach because of cost.
The Guardian 