The Department of Health says more than 55 000 people have started using Lenacapavir, with women making up the majority of those receiving the twice-yearly injectable HIV prevention medication.
More than 55 123 people had been initiated on Lenacapavir by Monday, 7 September 2026, following its official national launch in June by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi.
According to the department, 71% of those who have received Lenacapavir are female, with the majority being pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.
Gauteng has recorded the highest uptake, with more than 26 357 people initiated on the medication, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 11 941. North West has recorded 4 479 initiations, while the Western Cape has 4 446, Mpumalanga 4 294 and the Eastern Cape 3 606.
The medication is now available at around 360 public health facilities across 24 districts in six provinces.
Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale says Lenacapavir has been approved and registered by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), as safe.
“Lenacapavir has been approved and registered by SAHPRA as safe and effective for preventing HIV infection, following a thorough review of preclinical, clinical and manufacturing data.”
Healthcare workers and implementing partners are monitoring the rollout, including the availability of the medication, quality of services, client follow-up and possible safety concerns.
Mohale says people who experience serious or persistent side effects after receiving the injection are encouraged to report them to healthcare workers at their nearest health facility.
“The department remains committed to the safe, responsible and evidence-based implementation of Lenacapavir and other medical products, supported by strengthened pharmacovigilance, clinical monitoring and rapid investigation of any serious adverse events.”
The Department of Health says Lenacapavir is being provided alongside other HIV prevention options as part of a comprehensive PrEP-choice programme.
