Rwanda welcomes new HIV prevention drug price.
Rwanda has welcomed the new price of Lenacapavir, a medicine recently approved to prevent HIV infection. The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, said he was pleased with the affordable price, calling it a big step in protecting people from the virus that causes AIDS.
On September 24, 2025, it was announced that the drug will cost only $40 (around 56,000 Rwandan francs) per person each year in low-income and middle-income countries. This big announcement came after strong partnerships between Unitaid, the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and Wits RHI.
The medicine is given as an injection only twice a year, which makes it easier for patients compared to daily pills. Experts say Lenacapavir provides almost 100% protection against HIV infection, giving hope to millions of people across Africa and the world.
Clinton praises the breakthrough
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who also leads the Clinton Health Access Initiative, said this was a huge step in global health.
“This is a major change, because it makes HIV prevention easier for patients, health workers, and healthcare systems as a whole,” Clinton explained.
His comments reflect the importance of affordable access to HIV medicines in Africa, where millions of new infections are reported every year.
Rwanda’s health minister reacts
Dr. Nsanzimana also shared his excitement in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He wrote: “This is a big step in preventing HIV. Lenacapavir, taken only twice a year, has shown nearly 100% protection. At only $40 per person per year, this is a life-changing opportunity for countries with limited resources.”
Rwanda has been one of the leading countries in Africa in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Affordable drugs like Lenacapavir are seen as a big support for national health programs and global commitments such as the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
Why this matters for Africa
Every year, more than 1.3 million people around the world become infected with HIV, with the majority living in sub-Saharan Africa. Many of them cannot afford expensive medicines.
By making this drug available at a low price, experts believe millions of new infections can be prevented. This could reduce healthcare costs, protect young people, and help families live healthier lives.
According to UNAIDS, access to prevention is one of the most effective ways to end the HIV epidemic. Rwanda and other African countries are now preparing to roll out Lenacapavir to communities most at risk.
Looking ahead
With support from international organizations and governments, Lenacapavir is expected to become a key tool in stopping HIV. Rwanda’s decision to support and welcome the new price shows how much progress is being made in global health.
Health experts say the next step is to make sure people in villages, towns, and cities all have equal access to this medicine. Education, awareness, and strong health systems will remain important in this fight.
For Rwanda, the affordable price of Lenacapavir is not just about medicine. It is about hope, prevention, and saving lives.
