Zambia has taken a major step in the fight against HIV/AIDS with the launch of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring (DVR), a new prevention method designed specifically for women.
Health officials say the innovation will help expand prevention choices, reduce new infections, and support the country’s goal of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
The new HIV prevention product was officially launched by the Ministry of Health at the University Teaching Hospital, where government officials, health experts, and development partners gathered to mark the milestone.
Health Minister Alex Katakwe described the introduction of the DVR as a significant shift toward more inclusive and woman-centred healthcare solutions.
A New Prevention Option for Women
The Dapivirine Vaginal Ring is a flexible silicone ring inserted into the vagina, where it slowly releases the antiretroviral drug dapivirine over a period of one month to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
Unlike daily prevention pills, the ring only needs to be replaced once every four weeks, making it a discreet and convenient option for women who may struggle with daily medication routines or face stigma when seeking HIV prevention services.
Health experts believe the product is especially important for women and girls who may have limited power to negotiate condom use or other forms of protection.
Symbol of Choice and Empowerment
Speaking at the event, Katakwe called the DVR a groundbreaking addition to Zambia’s HIV prevention efforts.
He said the ring represents progress and greater control for women over their own health and future.
“This ring is a symbol of progress, choice and empowerment for women and girls across our nation,” he said.
The minister added that the launch demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to delivering practical, people-focused interventions that respond to the real needs of communities.
Progress Made, But Challenges Remain
Katakwe noted that Zambia has made strong progress in reducing new HIV infections over the past decade.
According to him, annual new infections have dropped from about 63,000 in 2010 to nearly 30,000 in 2025.
This improvement has been driven by continued investment in testing, treatment, awareness campaigns, and prevention programmes.
However, despite those gains, young women remain among the most vulnerable groups.
Young Women Still Disproportionately Affected
The minister said adolescent girls and young women aged 15 to 24 account for 38 percent of all new HIV infections in Zambia.
He added that girls in this age group face more than three times the risk of infection compared with their male counterparts.
This higher vulnerability is linked to several factors, including poverty, gender inequality, early relationships, limited access to healthcare, and social pressures.
Because of this, officials say introducing prevention tools designed specifically for women is essential to reducing infection rates.
Expansion of Prevention Choices
Also speaking at the launch, National AIDS Council representative Violet Mongeza described the rollout as a transformative moment in Zambia’s HIV response.
She said the ring is more than just a new product.
“This is not merely the addition of a new commodity, but an expansion of choice,” she said.
Mongeza explained that the DVR rollout is part of Zambia’s 2025–2030 National HIV Prevention Roadmap, which promotes a combination prevention strategy that gives people access to multiple options based on their needs.
University Teaching Hospital at the Forefront
Senior Medical Superintendent at the University Teaching Hospital, Charles Mbewe, said the hospital is among the first institutions selected to support the new programme.
He said preparations are already underway to ensure successful implementation, including staff training, patient education, and strengthening service delivery systems.
Mbewe added that strong healthcare systems will be key to making the intervention effective and accessible.
Importance of Public Awareness
Katakwe also called on healthcare workers, community leaders, and development partners to help promote awareness and acceptance of the ring.
He stressed the need to address myths, misinformation, and stigma that could discourage women from using the product.
According to him, the success of the initiative will depend on strong collaboration between government, health providers, communities, and international partners.
Zambia’s Path to 2030
The launch of the Dapivirine Vaginal Ring reflects Zambia’s broader determination to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
To achieve that target, the country is focusing on expanding prevention tools, improving treatment access, protecting vulnerable populations, and strengthening healthcare systems.
