How Prof Janabi won delegates’ support for top WHO Africa job

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s Prof Mohammed Yakub Janabi has been elected as the new Regional Director for Africa at the World Health Organisation (WHO), following a vote by the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Geneva.
Prof Janabi’s nomination came after a convincing plea for votes in which he laid out a bold, seven-pillar agenda for transforming health systems across Africa. 
His delivery, both passionate and pragmatic, won broad support from ministers and delegates across the continent.
The announcement was made by the session chairperson, Liberia’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Louise Mapleh Kpoto.
Dr Kpoto read out the resolution: “The Regional Committee, considering Article 52 of the Constitution, and in accordance with Rule 52 of its Rules of Procedure, nominates Prof Mohammed Yakub Janabi as Regional Director for the African Region.” The pronouncement was met with cheers and applause from Tanzania’s delegation, prompting a brief pause in proceedings to allow celebrations.
Prof Janabi’s nomination now awaits confirmation by the WHO Executive Board. If approved, he will serve a term of five years and eight months.
“Let me congratulate you, Prof Mohammed Yakub Janabi, on your nomination,” Dr Kpoto added.
Speaking earlier before the committee, Prof Janabi appealed for unity and commitment, noting that Africa’s health future depends on collaborative leadership. 
“I stand before you not merely as a candidate, but as a dedicated partner, unwavering in my commitment to our shared vision of a healthier, stronger region,” he said.
He emphasised universal health coverage, sustainable financing, improved maternal and child health, and digital innovation as top priorities.  He also stressed the importance of reducing reliance on earmarked donor funds and called for increased domestic contributions and partnerships.
Prof Janabi, who was nominated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, brings over 30 years of experience in clinical practice, public health leadership, and institutional reform. 
He previously served as Senior Advisor on Health Policy and Nutrition to Presidents Jakaya Kikwete and Samia Suluhu Hassan. He is widely recognised for founding the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), which has reduced referrals for heart treatment abroad and saved public funds. 
At Muhimbili National Hospital, he championed digital tools and AI to improve healthcare delivery to over 12,000 health facilities nationwide. President Samia’s administration ran a robust campaign to rally regional support for Prof Janabi’s bid, and nearly every delegate who spoke after the vote praised his credentials and leadership. 
Namibia’s Health Minister, Dr Esperance Luvindao, said Prof Janabi’s vision aligns with her country’s goals. “We are inspired by your commitment and look forward to working with you to address inequalities affecting Africa’s health systems,” she said.
Malawi’s Health Minister, Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, noted the importance of the timing. “This is a very critical period, and we are confident that you will replicate your successes in Tanzania across the region,” she said.
Uganda’s Health Minister, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, assured Prof Janabi of Uganda’s full support. “We trust that under your leadership, the WHO Africa Regional Office is in safe hands,” she said.
Delegates from Congo-Brazzaville, Angola, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, the Central African Republic, and South Africa also commended the new Regional Director-elect for his track record and clear strategic vision.
Prof Janabi also paid tribute to the late Dr Faustine Ndugulile, the former Regional Director-elect, acknowledging his legacy and the path he paved for Tanzania’s continued role in regional health leadership.
His election is a significant milestone for Tanzania’s visibility in global health governance, and expectations are high for his term to drive impactful reforms across the continent.