By Alice Lubasi
The first shipment of United States-funded Lenacapavir HIV prevention medication has arrived in Zambia.
Lenacapavir is administered twice a year and offers a new option for HIV prevention.
Speaking after touring the UTH-Women and Newborn Hospital, United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs FRANK GARCIA said the medication will be provided at no cost to women, mothers and other people at risk of HIV across Zambia.
Mr. GARCIA said the support is in line with the America First Global Health Strategy, which focuses on government-led health priorities and strengthening the capacity of partner countries.
He also said that under President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA, Zambia has made progress towards building a more sustainable and locally driven health system.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination GEORGE SINYANGWE thanked the United States Government, saying the delivery of the medication will support Zambia’s efforts to combat HIV.
And UTH-Women and Newborn Hospital Senior Medical Superintendent MUKATIMUI MUNALULA said more than 200 women have been initiated on Lenacapavir since the hospital began receiving the medication and related support.
