FLAS and Ministry of Health Receive CAB-LA Donation from IPPF to Strengthen HIV Prevention

Ms. Sindi Matse, Program Manager at the Ministry of Health, also shared her remarks: “This is a milestone for us as we expand PrEP options in the country. We’ve observed that clients have different needs and preferences. Expanding these choices is key, and we sincerely appreciate the donation. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to FLAS and IPPF for their unwavering support in advancing HIV prevention efforts in Eswatini.”

FLAS Executive Director, Mr. Patrick Dlamini, expressed deep appreciation, stating: “ I would like to express my gratitude to IPPF and the Ministry’s representatives. This donation aligns with the national priority of achieving an HIV-free generation.

 

In a significant stride toward enhancing HIV prevention in Eswatini, the Family Life Association of Eswatini (FLAS) officially received a donation of long-acting injectable PrEP—CAB-LA from the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF). The handover ceremony took place at the FLAS Head Office and was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health. The donation of CAB-LA (cabotegravir long-acting) marks a critical milestone in FLA's efforts to expand access to innovative biomedical HIV prevention methods under the Consortium to Advance Access to New Biomedical HIV Prevention Products (CAAPP Project).

The product joins the PrEP Ring, which was introduced in 2024, further widening the spectrum of HIV prevention options available to communities. Speaking at the event, FLAS Executive Director Mr. Patrick Dlamini expressed his appreciation: “I would like to express my gratitude to IPPF and the Ministry’s representatives. This donation aligns with the national priority of achieving an HIV-free generation. By receiving this, FLAS continues to position itself as a provider of high-quality, accessible, and comprehensive health services.”

         

CAB-LA offers a discreet, convenient, and highly effective HIV prevention method that is administered via injection every two months, presenting an alternative for clients who may not prefer daily oral PrEP or other forms. The expansion of options is crucial in addressing the diverse preferences and needs of individuals at risk of HIV.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Sindi Matse, Program Manager at the Ministry of Health, emphasised the importance of choice and access in public health interventions: “This is a milestone for us as we expand PrEP options in the country. We’ve observed that clients have different needs and preferences. Expanding these choices is key, and we sincerely appreciate the donation. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to FLAS and IPPF for their unwavering support in advancing HIV prevention efforts in Eswatini.”

    

This donation reinforces FLAS’s commitment to inclusive healthcare and strengthens the national HIV response by ensuring that more people especially those in key and vulnerable populations, have access to prevention tools that best suit their lifestyles.