Gauteng: The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has achieved a significant milestone in its Lenacapavir rollout program, exceeding its targets in the very first month of implementing the HIV prevention drug. The phased rollout, which began last month, aims to provide an additional protection measure for individuals at high risk of HIV, contributing to South Africa's goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
According to South African Government News Agency, since the phased rollout started on 08 June 2026, 6,130 eligible clients have been initiated on Lenacapavir across Gauteng, reaching 131% of the provincial monthly target of 4,672 initiations. The treatment is currently available at 133 clinics across the province, all equipped with adequate Lenacapavir stock to ensure service delivery.
The provincial health authority reported a strong initial uptake of Lenacapavir services across its five health districts. Tshwane District recorded the highest number of initiations with 2,216 clients, followed by Johannesburg with 1,981 initiations, Ekurhuleni with 1,435, Sedibeng District with 377, and West Rand District with 121 initiations.
The department has confirmed sufficient stock levels of Lenacapavir to support the rollout. Provincial stock monitoring shows more than 7,400 injection packs and over 7,500 oral tablet packs available at reporting facilities. Additionally, a second shipment of 9,830 Lenacapavir packs was received at the Medical Supplies Depot on 26 June 2026 to support program expansion and ensure continuous access to the medication across the province.
While celebrating the high uptake, the GDoH emphasized that Lenacapavir is not a standalone solution but a crucial addition to the existing prevention toolkit. The department reminded the public that Lenacapavir does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections or unintended pregnancies. Individuals using Lenacapavir are encouraged to continue practicing safer sex, including consistent condom use, regular STI screenings, and accessing sexual and reproductive health services at public healthcare facilities.
The GDoH praised the commitment of front-line staff who facilitated this swift rollout. The department commended healthcare workers, program managers, and facility teams across the province for ensuring eligible clients have access to this important intervention. Expanding access to comprehensive HIV prevention services, especially among populations at increased risk of HIV infection, remains a top priority for the department.