Seithati Motšoeneng
IN a significant boost to Lesotho’s fight against HIV/AIDS, the government has received 6000 doses of the long-acting HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir from the United States.
The consignment was formally handed over on Friday by the Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Maseru, Thomas Hines, to government officials at the National Drug Service Organisation (NDSO), where it will be stored before distribution to health facilities across the country.
The government delegation was led by the Minister of Health, Selibe Mochoboroane, alongside Deputy Prime Minister Nthomeng Majara and Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane.
Lenacapavir is described as a groundbreaking, long-acting injectable form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) administered only twice a year. It has demonstrated high effectiveness in preventing HIV infection and represents a major advancement in HIV prevention. The drug was developed by US pharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ms Majara stressed the importance of Lenacapavir as a new tool in Lesotho’s HIV response.
“Today, we celebrate not just the arrival of Lenacapavir, but the collective effort and partnerships that have made this possible,” Ms Majara said.
“This innovative prevention method reinforces our national response and offers renewed hope to communities across Lesotho.”
Ms Majara noted that Lesotho had made commendable progress in combating HIV/AIDS through sustained collaboration between government, development agencies and implementing partners.
“The investments we have received have built a strong foundation, allowing us to introduce new prevention technologies such as Lenacapavir. However, it is important to remember that this is not a substitute for responsible behaviour and ongoing prevention efforts.”
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening a resilient health system, promoting HIV prevention and ensuring equitable access to essential health commodities.
“With national ownership and active stakeholder engagement, we will continue to make strides towards a healthier, HIV-free future for Lesotho,” Ms Majara said.
Dr Matlanyane highlighted the significance of the development, saying it underscored the government’s dedication to expanding access to effective and patient-centred HIV prevention options.
“This is a remarkable contribution that reflects our shared commitment as government, donors and partners to reduce new infections and provide better healthcare options for our people,” she said.
She added that more than 20 000 doses of Lenacapavir are expected to be procured within the year with support from the Global Fund and the United States government through its State Department.
Mr Hines expressed pride in the partnership that enabled the delivery.
“Lenacapavir is a beacon of American innovation and a testament to the strong US–Lesotho relationship.
“This new medication provides near-complete protection against HIV with just two doses a year, offering hope especially to pregnant and breastfeeding women and others at high risk of infection.”
He also highlighted Lesotho’s progress over the past two decades, noting improvements in life expectancy and the strengthening of the health system.
“Lesotho has achieved remarkable milestones with more than US$1 billion in American assistance over the past 19 years.
“Today’s delivery of 6000 doses continues that legacy of partnership and hope, helping to bend the curve of the HIV epidemic,” Mr Hines said.
Mr Mochoboroane echoed the optimism, while cautioning that Lenacapavir should complement, not replace, existing prevention measures such as safe practices and regular HIV testing.
“This is not a panacea. It is a vital addition to our prevention arsenal, and we must continue to promote behaviours and norms that keep our communities safe,” Mr Mochoboroane said.