What Young People Need to Know About Lenacapavir (LEN)

South Africa has reached a major milestone in the fight against HIV. This week, Mpumalanga became the first province to launch the rollout of Lenacapavir (LEN), a groundbreaking HIV prevention injection that has the potential to transform how people protect themselves from HIV.

The launch marked a significant moment in the country's HIV response, and the Soul City Institute was proud to be on the ground in Mpumalanga, supporting this historic milestone and amplifying awareness about this game-changing prevention option for young people and communities.

For young people, especially adolescent girls and young women who continue to face a disproportionate risk of HIV infection, this development offers a new and exciting prevention option.

What is Lenacapavir?

Lenacapavir (LEN) is a long-acting HIV prevention injection that is administered only twice a year. Unlike daily oral PrEP, LEN provides long-lasting protection against HIV with just one injection every six months.

The introduction of LEN represents a significant step forward in HIV prevention, offering a convenient option for people who may find it difficult to take a daily pill.

Why Does This Matter for Young People?

Young people remain at the centre of South Africa's HIV response. Every year, thousands of young people, particularly adolescent girls and young women, acquire HIV.

Having more prevention choices means that young people can select the option that best fits their lifestyle and circumstances. Lenacapavir has the potential to improve adherence to HIV prevention methods by reducing the burden of daily medication.

By expanding access to effective prevention tools, South Africa moves closer to reducing new HIV infections and achieving its goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.

What Does the Launch Mean?

The launch in Mpumalanga marks the beginning of a phased rollout of LEN across selected health facilities in South Africa.

Health experts believe that widespread access to Lenacapavir could significantly reduce new HIV infections, particularly among populations at higher risk. While no single intervention can end HIV on its own, LEN adds a powerful new tool to South Africa's HIV prevention toolkit.

For many young people, this innovation means greater control over their sexual health and another opportunity to protect their future.

How Can You Access Lenacapavir?

Young people who are interested in accessing Lenacapavir can find participating clinics through the B-Wise Lenacapavir Facility Finder.

The facility finder allows users to search for clinics across South Africa and identify the nearest health facility where LEN services are available.

Visit the B-Wise Lenacapavir Facility Finder to locate a clinic offering LEN services near you and learn more about eligibility and access.

Remember: LEN is Part of a Comprehensive Prevention Approach

While Lenacapavir is highly effective at preventing HIV, it is not a cure for HIV and it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or unplanned pregnancies.

Young people are encouraged to:

• Know their HIV status through regular HIV testing.

• Use condoms consistently and correctly.

• Access sexual and reproductive health services.

• Seek accurate information from trusted healthcare providers.

• Consider HIV prevention options, including PrEP and Lenacapavir, based on their individual needs.

• Have open conversations about sexual health and prevention.

The most effective HIV response is one that combines prevention, testing, treatment, education, and community support.

Looking Ahead

The rollout of Lenacapavir is a historic moment for South Africa's HIV response. It represents hope, innovation, and a future where young people have more choices to protect their health and well-being.

As access expands across the country, LEN has the potential to significantly reduce new HIV infections and bring South Africa closer to an HIV-free generation.

At Soul City Institute, we remain committed to ensuring that young people have access to accurate information, life-saving health services, and the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health.

Your health. Your choice. Your future.

For more information and to find a clinic near you, visit the B-Wise Lenacapavir Facility Finder.