Eswatini to roll out New Lancapir PrEP at ‘Today’ at World AIDS Day Commemoration

By Thokozani Mazibuko

Eswatini will take another major step in the fight against HIV today as the Ministry of Health introduces the new Lancapir pre-exposure prophylaxis today at the national World AIDS Day commemoration at Hhukwini Inkhundla.

The announcement was made by the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health Khanya Mabuza who confirmed that members of the public will witness the first symbolic administration of the long acting prevention injection during the event.

According to the Principal Secretary, several individuals have been selected to receive the first publicly administered jabs as part of the national launch. The ministry intends to demonstrate the safety, accessibility and simplicity of the new prevention method.

Mabuza described the rollout as a historic milestone for the country, noting that it brings Eswatini closer to ending new HIV infections. He said that the public demonstration is aimed at helping communities understand how the new option works and how it can protect people who are at high risk of acquiring HIV.

The introduction of Lancapir PrEP comes at a time when Eswatini continues to strengthen its national response to HIV.

The country has been globally recognised for its successful efforts in expanding treatment, improving viral load suppression and reducing mother to child transmission.

However, health officials believe that reducing new infections remains a critical priority. The Principal Secretary said that the new injectable PrEP adds another effective tool to the national effort and expands the range of prevention choices available to the public.

Lancapir is a long acting antiretroviral medicine developed for use as pre exposure prophylaxis. Unlike daily oral PrEP tablets, Lancapir is administered through an intramuscular injection that can provide protection for a long period depending on the dosage schedule.

The medicine works by blocking the virus from entering human cells and preventing HIV from establishing infection in the body. Studies have shown that long acting injectables can improve adherence because people do not need to remember to take medication every day.

The injectable option is also useful for those who struggle with pill fatigue, stigma, storage limitations or inconsistent access to medication.
The development of Lancapir represents years of scientific advancement aimed at providing more convenient prevention tools.

Clinical trials conducted in several regions have demonstrated its effectiveness when administered correctly.

Researchers have found that the drug maintains strong antiviral activity over time and provides sustained protection when taken according to prescribed intervals.

The long acting nature of the medicine allows health systems to explore new delivery models that can reach people in remote areas or those with limited access to daily medication.

Eswatini’s decision to introduce Lancapir follows extensive consultations with global partners and national experts.

The Ministry of Health has worked closely with implementing agencies, clinicians, community organisations and international health bodies to prepare for the rollout.

Training sessions have been conducted for health workers who will administer the injection and provide counselling to clients. Guidance has also been developed to ensure that facilities offering the service adhere to the required clinical and safety standards.

Mabuza said that introducing long acting PrEP is part of a broader strategy to diversify HIV prevention methods. The Ministry hopes that expanding the available choices will help meet the needs of different age groups and social categories.

The Principal Secretary emphasised that prevention must be convenient, acceptable and aligned with the realities of people’s lives. He said that the government remains committed to ensuring that all citizens have access to modern and effective HIV prevention tools.