HIV prevention: What to know about new once-monthly ARV pills set to be manufactured in Kenya
By Dan Kauna, September 28, 2026Kenya has been selected as one of three African nations to locally produce a new once-monthly HIV prevention pill.
Under a voluntary licensing agreement announced by pharmaceutical company Merck, Kikuyu-based Universal Corporation Limited will manufacture generic versions of alimatravir, also known as MK-8527.
The royalty-free agreement covers 129 low- and middle-income countries, ensuring local facilities contribute directly to global health solutions.
How the monthly pill works
Alimatravir is an investigational oral antiretroviral pill designed for pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly called PrEP.
Unlike standard oral PrEP that requires taking a pill every day, this long-acting tablet is taken once a month to protect HIV-negative individuals from contracting the virus.
Medical researchers note that reduced pill frequency makes it easier for individuals to stay protected.
A peer-reviewed study published in PLOS Biology states that “monthly oral pre-exposure prophylaxis could provide a convenient option with the potential to improve adherence compared to daily HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, and to reduce the barrier to access represented by frequent healthcare visits for administration of long-acting injectable HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis.”
Local trials and expected cost
The drug is currently undergoing late-stage Phase 3 clinical trials to confirm its safety and efficacy.
In Kenya, the Kenya Medical Research Institute is leading local clinical trials among young women and adolescent girls. This ensures that safety data directly reflects the population most affected by HIV in the region.
Affordability is another key component of the initiative. Estimates indicate that the pill could cost health systems approximately USD5 (about Ksh650) per person annually once approved.
Local manufacturing eliminates heavy import duties and freight costs, keeping prices manageable for public clinics.
Rollout timelines and next steps
Commercial production in Kenya will begin after trial completion and regulatory approval from local health authorities.
Merck has pledged to supply an interim stockpile at cost to prevent delays while local manufacturing capacity scales up.
Local production ensures steady drug supplies, reduces reliance on overseas imports, and expands accessible HIV prevention choices for everyday Kenyans.