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Universal Corporation Limited (UCL), a pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Kikuyu, has been selected by global drug company Merck as one of only seven manufacturers worldwide licensed to produce alimatravir, an experimental HIV prevention medicine that is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials.
The licensing agreement, announced by Merck on Friday, gives the Kiambu County-based company the right to manufacture or import the medicine and supply it to hospitals, pharmacies, government health programmes, non-governmental organisations and donor-funded initiatives in countries with high HIV burdens.
National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) Acting CEO Douglas Bosire told the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health that shifting global funding patterns have left prevention activities exposed.
The plan introduces new HIV prevention tools such as long-acting injectables and the dapivirine ring, aiming to cut new infections in high-burden counties by strengthening access and health worker training.