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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Ms Faith Muthambi, has welcomed the national rollout of Lenacapavir and commended the government and the Department of Health for it.
 
The official launch which took place today in Secunda, Mpumalanga, was led by President Cyril Ramaphosa alongside the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi.  Ms Muthambi said the introduction of Lenacapavir offers renewed hope to millions of South Africans and demonstrates government’s continued commitment to combating and preventing the spread of HIV.
 
She added that the intervention represents an important step towards more equitable access to healthcare. “The launch of Lenacapavir is not only a medical breakthrough but also a powerful statement of intent that South Africa will continue to lead in the fight against HIV. It reflects our shared responsibility to protect lives, strengthen our health system, and build a healthier and more prosperous nation for all,” said Ms Muthambi.
 
Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention medication that provides a less burdensome and more effective option by reducing the need for daily adherence. The drug has the potential to improve adherence, enhance protection for vulnerable communities, and empower individuals to take greater control of their health.  
 
The rollout is expected to strengthen HIV prevention strategies and reduce pressure on healthcare services over time by lowering the number of new HIV infections. It complements existing prevention and treatment programmes and is intended to support South Africa in accelerating progress towards national and global HIV targets. By reducing new HIV infections, the intervention may also lower healthcare costs over the long-term and ease the financial burden on an already strained public health system.
 
South Africa continues to carry a high burden of HIV infections. An estimated eight (8) million people are living with HIV, representing approximately 12.8% of the population. Of these, about 6.2 million people (78%) are receiving antiretroviral treatment. Recent estimates indicate that approximately 178 000 new HIV infections occurred between mid-2023 and mid-2024, while around 105 000 people living with HIV died during the same period, including an estimated 53 000 deaths attributable to HIV-related causes.
 
Ms Muthambi emphasised that the introduction of Lenacapavir represents a significant milestone for South Africa’s HIV response. “This day marks a major milestone for our country and signals South Africa’s commitment to adopting innovative, life-changing prevention methods that will strengthen the country’s overall response to the epidemic and improve health outcomes for all South Africans.”

Issued by the Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the chairperson of the portfolio committee Faith Muthambi