The Community Health Rights Advocacy (CHeRA) has welcomed the official launch of the Lenacapavir (LEN) injection for HIV prevention in Malawi, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening HIV prevention efforts, particularly among key populations who continue to face a higher risk of HIV infection.

Speaking during the official launch held on 2 July 2026, CHeRA Executive Director AnizMitha said the introduction of Lenacapavir offers renewed hope for communities that are disproportionately affected by HIV, including male sex workers.

“As you know, we work with male sex workers who are at a huge risk of acquiring HIV. We will encourage our members to go and get the injection so that they protect themselves,” said Mitha.

He noted that CHeRA will continue working with its community networks to raise awareness about the new prevention option and encourage eligible individuals to access the injection through designated health facilities.

Representing the United States Government, Chargé d’Affaires Jonathan Fischer said the United States is proud to partner with Malawi in the country’s efforts to end HIV as a public health threat.

Fischer revealed that the U.S. Government has supported Malawi with 38,000 doses of Lenacapavir this year, making Malawi one of only 10 countries receiving support for the rollout of the innovative HIV prevention injection. He added that although Malawi administered its first Lenacapavir dose on 5 May 2026, the programme was officially launched on 2 July 2026, marking an important step in expanding HIV prevention services.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the government of Malawi, the Ministry of Health, Madalitso Baloyi, MP, said Malawi has made remarkable progress in reducing new HIV infections over the past decade.

“Since 2010, Malawi has recorded more than an 80 percent decline in new HIV infections. However, new infections continue to occur, particularly among young people, and Lenacapavir provides another powerful tool to help us defeat HIV,” she said.

Baloyi called on health workers to ensure that the injection reaches people who are at substantial risk of acquiring HIV, in line with national guidelines. She also urged the media to provide accurate and responsible information to the public to promote understanding and acceptance of the new HIV prevention option.

As an organisation committed to advancing the health and human rights of key populations, CHeRA believes the introduction of Lenacapavir represents a major opportunity to reduce new HIV infections among vulnerable communities. The organisation will continue collaborating with government, development partners and community-led organisations to ensure that those who stand to benefit most from the injection are informed, empowered and able to access the service.

The official launch marks another important milestone in Malawi’s journey towards ending HIV, with CHeRA reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing life-saving HIV prevention services.