Busia County Launches Long-Acting Injectable PrEP to Strengthen HIV Prevention Efforts

Busia County, with support from Dumisha Afya, launched the new injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) Lenacapavir and Cabotegravir (CAB-LA) in April. The introduction provides residents with an alternative to daily oral PrEP, offering longer-lasting protection against HIV.

Dumisha Afya is one of AMPATH’s HIV care and prevention programs funded by the United States Government through the Department of State with the generous support of the American people.

Busia County Deputy Governor, H.E. Hon. Arthur Odera, demonstrates the administration of injectable PrEP, alongside Dumisha Afya CoP Dr. Everline Ashiono and Busia CASCO Ms. Constance Were.

Speaking during the launch, Busia County Deputy Governor and County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, H.E. Hon. Arthur Odera, highlighted that injectable PrEP offers a more convenient method of HIV prevention, helping the county move closer to its goal of eliminating mother-to-child transmission and ensuring that young people and other at-risk populations are protected from further spread of HIV. He also reported a remarkably swift uptake.

“More than 1,000 residents received the drug within just three weeks of rollout, with several facilities already nearing stock-out from the initial batch supplied. Our people have realized the need for convenience in protecting themselves," he said. The Busia County launch is part of the National PrEP program funded by PEPFAR, UNITAID and Global Fund.

Dumisha Afya Chief of Party, Dr. Everline Ashiono, described the introduction of the long-acting injectable PrEP as both timely and significant, noting that it marks a major step forward in expanding HIV prevention options and ensuring access to innovative, effective and person-centred services.

Busia County Deputy Governor H.E. Hon. Arthur Odera (C) poses for a photo with Dumisha Afya CoP Dr. Everline Ashiono and Busia County Department of Health top leadership during the launch.

“Long-acting HIV prevention options have the potential to transform the prevention landscape, particularly for individuals who face challenges with daily adherence or who would benefit from more convenient options. These innovations help address barriers such as pill burden, the need to carry medication, and frequent facility visits associated with transport costs. By introducing these options, Busia County is demonstrating leadership and commitment to ensuring that HIV prevention services continue to evolve in response to the needs of the people,” she said.

Dr. Ashiono reaffirmed Dumisha Afya’s commitment to working with Busia County and other stakeholders to support quality implementation, strengthen service delivery, and achieve sustained impact. “We believe that through partnership, innovation, and county leadership, we can strengthen HIV prevention and improve health outcomes for the people of Busia,” she added.

The Chief Officer for Public Health, Dr. Susan Outa, who was present at the event, reaffirmed the County’s commitment to the rollout of PrEP and sustained community engagement to help residents understand the importance of PrEP, while also strengthening awareness around prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among clients.

Director of Public Health Lok Joseph Oprong and CASCO Constance Were echoed the Chief Officer’s sentiments, calling on the youth to champion the message within their communities and turn out in large numbers to access the long-acting PrEP. They emphasized that the intervention offers one of the most effective ways for young people and populations at high risk to protect themselves, stay healthy, and build a more resilient future.

Busia County received 1162 Doses of the new PrEP options (Lenacapavir - 760 and CAB-LA - 402). They have been rolled out across 10 health facilities in the county (Busia CRH, Matayos SCH, Port-Victoria SCH, Sio Port SCH, Khunyangu SCH, Nambale SCH, Alupe SCH, Amukura SCH, Teso North SCH, and Angurai HC). Since their introduction, 760 doses of Lenacapavir and 306 doses of CAB-LA have been dispensed, demonstrating growing demand, increased awareness, and a strong commitment of residents to protecting their health and preventing HIV.