The newly-introduced HIV prevention vaccine, Lenacapavir, is expected to reach three million people within three years across the country, as 360 public health facilities across six provinces and 24 high-burden districts stand ready to provide this groundbreaking intervention.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who spearheaded the launch and national roll-out of the vaccine at the Lilian Ngoyi Stadium in Secunda on June 5.

Lenacapavir is a bi-annual injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) option that provides highly effective protection against HIV acquisition for people who are HIV-negative, offering a convenient new choice for HIV prevention.

“This is not merely a medical advance. It is a practical intervention that can transform lives. It reduces barriers to adherence. It expands choice. It strengthens dignity and it empowers people to take control of their health and their future,” Ramaphosa said.

“Lenacapavir is not just a medicine or a drug. To us it represents a major turning point in South Africa’s national story. It represents one of the most significant scientific breakthroughs since the advent of antiretroviral treatment. It represents the triumph of science over despair. It represents the power of innovation to save lives. Above all, it represents hope.”

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Ramaphosa was supported by the minister of health, Aaron Motsoaledi; the Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu; and the MEC for health, Sasekani Manzini.

Taking his turn to address the attendees, Ndlovu said Mpumalanga has the highest HIV prevalence rate in South Africa, currently 17.4%. He encouraged the public to make use the opportunity to prevent more HIV infections by taking this vaccine.

“Our clinics, hospitals and community health workers are prepared to roll-out this life-changing solution. Together with government, civil society, business and global partners, we are united in purpose, to curb new infections and protect our people,” Ndlovu said at the launch.

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The first administration of the vaccine took place earlier at the Paulina Morapedi Community Health Centre. Jane Mndebele (21) became the first recipient of the long-acting HIV prevention injection administered in the presence of Motsoaledi.

Mndebele encouraged her peers to protect themselves by taking the vaccine.