Health authorities in Rwanda have confirmed that the rollout of a bi-monthly HIV prevention injection is progressing, albeit slowly, due to its current availability in only a few health facilities in Kigali. Plans are underway to expand access nationwide.
The injectable medication, known as CAB-LA, is administered every two months to prevent new HIV infections. Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, CAB-LA provides long-acting protection by preventing the virus from entering and multiplying within the body’s cells. The program in Rwanda officially began in January 2025 and is currently available at Busanza and Gikondo health centers in Kicukiro District.
The treatment is currently prioritized for groups at higher risk of contracting HIV, including sexually active youth with high infection rates, sex workers, men who have sex with men, and discordant couples—where one partner is HIV-positive and the other is not.
According to The New Times, Dr. Zephanie Nzeyimana, an official at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), said the slow pace is due to the limited number of facilities offering the service. “Distribution is still slow because it’s currently available at only two health centers, and we are conducting an evaluation before expanding the program to other areas,” he explained.
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This year-long pilot phase includes monitoring how the medication is administered, assessing any potential side effects, and determining the feasibility of nationwide distribution. Dr. Nzeyimana reported that 90% of individuals who have received the injection responded positively, with most finding it more convenient than taking daily preventive pills.
As of June 30, 2025, a total of 15,525 people in Rwanda were on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)—a preventive treatment for HIV-negative individuals at high risk of infection.
While international studies indicate possible side effects such as fever, headaches, and diarrhea, patients in Rwanda have mainly reported mild pain at the injection site lasting up to three days. Dr. Nzeyimana advised those experiencing discomfort to take over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
