Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable option that could significantly shift how people protect themselves against HIV.
Joining the conversation were representatives from the Desmond Tutu
Health Foundation: Mbali Jonas, Marketing and Communications Coordinator;
Nombeko Mpongo and Thando Wonxie, Media Liaison Officers.
Together, they unpacked what Lenacapavir is, how it works, and why it
matters for communities across the country.
What Is Lenacapavir?
Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention injection taken twice a
year. According to Mbali Jonas, it offers protection against HIV infection
without the need to take a daily pill.
This innovation builds on years of HIV prevention efforts in South
Africa. Since 2016, oral PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) has been available
nationwide. Over time, newer prevention options such as injectable PrEP and the
dipivefrine ring were introduced through implementation science projects like
FAST PrEP.
Lenacapavir now expands these choices even further, with plans for
national availability, not just limited research settings.
Choice, Not Replacement
A key message from the discussion was clear: Lenacapavir does not replace oral PrEP. Instead, it adds another option. Mbali compared HIV prevention to contraception. Some people prefer daily oral contraceptives, while others choose injections or implants. HIV prevention works the same way. If daily oral PrEP fits your lifestyle, it remains a great option. If you prefer something discreet that doesn’t require daily adherence, Lenacapavir may work better. The goal is choice—allowing individuals to select what best suits their lives.
Prevention vs Treatment: What’s the Difference?
Thando Wonxie explained the distinction simply:
‘’HIV treatment is lifelong for people living with HIV. HIV prevention
is for people who are HIV-negative and want to stay that way. Lenacapavir, in
this context, is currently focused on prevention. While studies are underway
exploring its use in HIV treatment, those findings are not yet publicly
available.’’
PICTURED - representatives from the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation: From left - Mbali Jonas, Marketing and Communications Coordinator; Thando Wonxie and Nombeko Mpongo, Media Liaison Officers.What Could This Mean for South Africa?
South Africa carries one of the highest HIV burdens in the world,
making new prevention tools critically important.
Nombeko Mpongo described Lenacapavir as a bridge between HIV infection
and hope. Because it is taken only twice a year, it could be especially
beneficial for people in rural areas, learners, and those who struggle to
access clinics regularly.
For example, someone could receive an injection during school holidays
in January and June, reducing disruptions to education and daily life.
“This is hope,” Nombeko said. “It tells us we’ve survived so much—and
now we have solutions.”
What About Resistance and Long-Term Use?
The panel reassured listeners that there are no major concerns about
resistance when Lenacapavir is used correctly. Importantly, prevention is a
choice—if someone is no longer sexually active, they can stop using it.
What an honour to join @bushradio 📻 to talk about Len injection, a game-changing innovation in the fight against HIV🎗️.#leninjection #lenacapavir #desmondtutuhealthfoundation #sexualhealth pic.twitter.com/sqFYVq4Ftu
— FASTPrEP (@FASTPrEPstudy) January 27, 2026
The Role of Government and Communities
While NGOs like the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation play a key role,
the panel stressed that communities must also advocate for themselves.
People need information before they can demand better services. By
engaging clinics, NGOs, and local leaders, communities can push for access to
prevention, family planning, and education—especially in remote areas.
How to Get in Touch
You can reach the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation / FAST PrEP Study
via:
Social media: @fastprepstudy (all platforms)
WhatsApp: 076 726 1950
They also operate mobile clinics, including a stationed clinic in
Philippi Village, with services available Monday to Friday, 10:00–16:00. Weekly
schedules are shared online.
Done By: Mitchum George
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