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HIV infections drop by 38% as gov’t launches Lenacapavir to intensify fight

17 April 2026, 8:37 pm

Health minister, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, partners and stakeholders launching the drug

By Winnie Auma

Uganda has taken a major step forward in the fight against HIV/AIDS with the launch of a new long-acting prevention drug, Lenacapavir, aimed at reducing new infections and accelerating efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat.

Speaking during the launch at Lira Regional Referral Hospital , the health minister, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng highlighted Uganda’s long-standing leadership in combating HIV/AIDS, dating back to the late 1980s and 1990s when the country gained global recognition for its open and decisive response to the epidemic.

That commitment, they say, continues to guide national efforts toward ending AIDS by 2030. Aceng said significant progress has already been made as new HIV infections have dropped from 96,000 in 2010 to 37,000 by the end of 2025, while access to treatment has expanded to over 98 percent. Currently, about 1.4 million Ugandans are on life-saving antiretroviral therapy.

Health minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng speaks about the drug.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director, Joint Clinical Research Centre, Cissy Kityo Mutuluuza researchers from the Joint Clinical Research Centre explained that Lenacapavir is currently designed for prevention, not treatment.

She said studies are ongoing to develop similar long-acting injectable drugs for people already living with HIV, with more affordable generic versions expected in the near future.

Executive Director JCRC , Cissy Kityo Mutuluuza says research is being done to get injectable drug for HIV treatment.

Dr Andrew Odur, the Director of Lira Regional Hospital emphasized that new innovations must go hand in hand with proven prevention strategies. The public has been urged to continue following preventive measures like; abstaining, being faithful, and consistent condom use as well as regularly testing for HIV.

Lira Hospital Director, Dr Andrew Odur calls on locals to follow preventive measures.

The Resident City Commissioner for Lira, Lawrence Egole who expressed gratitude that Lango sub-region is the first to receive the new intervention, called upon local leaders to lead by example by embracing the innovation and mobilizing communities to utilize prevention services.

Stakeholders during the launch.

Development partners, including the United States government, the Global Fund, and United Nations agencies, were commended for their continued support in Uganda’s HIV response, particularly in funding treatment, prevention, and health system