By Atoyebi Nike
The World Health Organization (WHO) has endorsed the global use of lenacapavir (LEN), a biannual injectable drug that provides near-total protection against HIV, marking a significant breakthrough in the global fight against AIDS.
Announced at the IAS 2025 Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, the WHO says LEN is a long-acting antiretroviral alternative to daily pills, especially beneficial for those facing stigma, limited access to care, or difficulty with daily adherence.
“While an HIV vaccine remains elusive, lenacapavir is the next best thing,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urging governments to integrate LEN into national HIV programmes.
The move comes amid stalled global prevention efforts, with 1.3 million new infections recorded in 2024, affecting key populations such as sex workers, men who have sex with men, and adolescents.
Although access to LEN is still limited beyond clinical trials, WHO is pushing for rapid rollout and real-world data collection. The drug has been FDA-approved, and WHO has issued new operational guidelines to help countries implement the treatment while sustaining HIV services amid funding challenges.
With over 40.8 million people living with HIV globally 65% of them in Africa experts say bold implementation is crucial.
“We have the tools and the knowledge to end AIDS. What’s needed now is action,” said Dr. Meg Doherty of WHO.
