Thabile Mwandla helps pioneer groundbreaking HIV prevention medication in South Africa
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Thabile Mwandla, a Clinical Technology alumna of the Durban University of Technology (DUT), has become an integral part of a pioneering team of clinical researchers behind the development and testing of Lenacapavir, a revolutionary injectable medication aimed at preventing HIV transmission.
The nation celebrated a significant milestone on Tuesday, 07 April 2026, when the South African Department of Health confirmed the arrival of the first shipment consisting of 37,920 doses of Lenacapavir.
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi heralded the arrival of these doses as a vital boost for the country’s ongoing HIV prevention efforts. Mwandla, serving as a Clinical Research Associate, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the medication’s arrival in South Africa, proudly reflecting on her contributions to a project she regards as transformative.
“We were overjoyed to receive news about Lenacapavir’s approval last June. The anticipation for its arrival in South Africa was palpable,” Mwandla shared. “Administered just twice a year, Lenacapavir signifies a monumental leap forward in our ability to prevent HIV transmission, particularly within communities heavily burdened by the virus.”
Over the past three years, Mwandla and her team dedicated countless hours to testing this medication, facilitating clinical investigations across 25 sites in South Africa and Uganda, with a focus on young people aged 18 to 25. Mwandla recounted the journey, which included navigating multiple approvals from international health regulatory bodies: “After extensive trials, we celebrated a breakthrough after three years of hard work.”
Growing up in the rural area of KwaMaphumulo in KwaZulu-Natal, Mwandla has a profound commitment to ensuring that Lenacapavir is accessible to all South Africans, particularly young individuals. “I wish for this medication to be provided free of charge to everyone, especially students in schools and universities. Young people are among the most vulnerable to new HIV infections, and it is essential that we reach them,” she stated, advocating for equitable healthcare access.
Mwandla's vision extends beyond mere medical solutions; she emphasises the necessity of accessibility, dignity, and hope. “This innovation is not just a medical advancement; it represents a shift in how we approach healthcare. By eliminating the daily adherence burden, we can offer a straightforward, effective solution for millions at risk of HIV,” she added.
A graduate of DUT, Mwandla began her career as a Clinical Technologist focusing on Pulmonology and quickly distinguished herself, earning a promotion to Head of Department by the age of 26. Her academic journey continued at the University of Liverpool in London, where she pursued postgraduate Honours studies in the Science of Clinical Research, further cementing her path in global medicine.
Outside her scientific accomplishments, Mwandla is an entrepreneur dedicated to empowering youth through her Mwandla Foundation, which supports high school learners with essential resources, career guidance, and mentorship aimed at helping them realise their educational aspirations.
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