Dr. Esperance Luvindao Pushes for Approval of Long-Acting HIV Injection Lenacapavir for Namibia’s Private Sector
By TUW
Namibia is preparing its regulatory framework to allow the introduction of Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly HIV prevention and treatment injection that has already begun rolling out in several African countries.
Health and Social Services Minister Dr. Esperance Luvindao confirmed that the government has initiated the approval process to make the drug available locally. She emphasised, however, that the medication will not be introduced in public health facilities until its price becomes more affordable.
Speaking during the World AIDS Day Commemoration on Monday, Dr. Luvindao noted that Lenacapavir will initially be accessible only through the private sector for patients who are able to pay for it. She said government is committed to working with international partners to secure price reductions so the drug can eventually reach vulnerable communities, particularly young people relying on public healthcare.
Across the continent, momentum around Lenacapavir is growing. Eswatini and Zambia have already begun administering the injection, becoming the first African nations to do so. South Africa approved the drug in October, followed by Zimbabwe and Malawi in November.
Dr. Luvindao added that Namibia is increasing its own domestic health funding to address the shortfalls caused by declining donor support, while also continuing collaboration with PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS.
