Kenya Chosen for Historic HIV Pill Manufacturing Deal

Kenya has been selected to manufacture alimatravir, a new monthly HIV prevention pill, under a royalty-free license covering 129 low- and middle-income countries. The drug will be produced by Universal Corporation in Kenya, marking the first time African manufacturers have been involved in licensing an HIV medicine from the beginning of the process.

The production is expected to begin if ongoing clinical trials confirm the effectiveness of alimatravir next year. Merck has licensed seven generic drugmakers to make a low-cost version of the pill, with one based in Kenya.

President William Ruto said Africa carries about a quarter of the world's disease burden but makes less than 6% of its medical supplies. He added that the new arrangement would give Africa a role in testing, manufacturing, and delivering new health products rather than leaving the continent dependent on imports.