South Africa Wants to Make Gilead’s HIV Prevention Drug Locally

South Africa is seeking to identify a local drugmaker to manufacture lenacapavir, the twice-yearly injection developed by Gilead Sciences Inc. described as the most promising HIV prevention tool in decades.

The government also opened talks with Gilead over a local manufacturing license, to secure faster and more predictable access to the drug — as well as cheaper options over time — in the country with the world’s highest HIV burden.

Lenacapavir has shown near-complete effectiveness in preventing HIV infection. Its appeal also lies in its durability and discretion: a single injection offers protection for six months, a breakthrough especially for ...