Tanzania's Janabi to face four others in race to WHO Africa post

Dar es Salaam. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially revealed the candidates for the position of Regional Director for Africa, following the sudden passing of Tanzanian public health expert, Dr Faustine Ndugulile.

Dr Ndugulile, who held several key positions in Tanzania’s public sector, including Deputy Minister for Health and Member of Parliament for Kigamboni, had been elected to the role at the time of his death in August 2024.

He was set to assume the position in March 2025, making history as the first Tanzanian and East African Community member to hold this prestigious role.

Widely regarded as a beacon of hope for Africa’s healthcare future, Dr Ndugulile’s election to lead the WHO Regional Office for Africa was seen as a pivotal moment in the continent’s ongoing battle against public health crises, including pandemics, emerging diseases, and efforts to strengthen healthcare systems.

However, in November 2024, Africa was shocked by the news of his passing while undergoing medical treatment, leaving a leadership vacuum at the WHO Africa office and a profound loss to the region’s health policy landscape.

Following Dr Ndugulile's death, WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus formally submitted the names of candidates for the role to the relevant Member States.

The selection process is highly anticipated, as the new Regional Director will play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s healthcare future.

The candidates for the position include:

Prof Mohamed Yakub Janabi (Tanzania)

Prof Janabi is the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) Executive Director and Senior Advisor on Health Matters to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

A distinguished cardiologist and health administrator, he has played a key role in advancing Tanzania’s healthcare, particularly in cardiovascular medicine.

Prof Janabi previously served as the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) Executive Director and as the former President Jakaya Kikwete’s Chief Health Advisor.

His leadership and expertise in healthcare management and medical research position him as a transformative figure in African healthcare.

Dr N’da Konan Michel Yao (Côte d'Ivoire)

A renowned researcher and academic, Dr N’da Yao is known for his significant contributions to public health, particularly in infectious disease research across Africa.

His work, including collaborations with WHO and other leading global institutions, has provided vital insights into disease dynamics and public health emergencies.

Dr Yao’s experience spans both the WHO global headquarters in Switzerland and the Regional Office for Africa in Congo.

Dr Dramé Mohammed Lamine (Guinea)

A seasoned public health expert, Dr Dramé Lamine has vast experience in disease prevention and healthcare system strengthening.

Having worked both nationally and internationally, he has played a key role in advancing maternal and child health initiatives, particularly in West Africa, and in tackling diseases such as malaria and other infectious illnesses in Guinea.

Dr Boureima Hama Sambo (Niger)

With over 30 years of experience in global health, Dr Boureima Sambo is a visionary leader currently serving as the WHO Representative in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He has previously held key roles, including as WHO Representative to Ethiopia, Gabon, and Rwanda, and as Director of the Climate and Health Department at WHO headquarters.

Throughout his career, Dr Sambo has championed primary healthcare and health security, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases, reproductive and child health, and equitable healthcare access.

Prof Mijiyawa Moustafa (Togo)

A rheumatologist and public health expert, Prof Mijiyawa Moustafa is a former Minister of Health in Togo, where he led significant advances in disease control, health financing, and access to essential medicines.

His leadership has prioritised both preventive and curative healthcare solutions, ensuring that Africa’s health agenda reflects the continent’s diverse needs.

The WHO Regional Director election is critical, with the selected candidate expected to tackle pressing issues such as healthcare financing, disease outbreaks, and the health impacts of climate change.

The new leader will also need to build on Dr Ndugulile’s unfinished vision, driving policies that are proactive, sustainable, and inclusive for Africa.

With the WHO Africa office playing a leading role in global health diplomacy, all eyes are now on the Member States as they prepare to vote.

Africa awaits with anticipation, hopeful that the next Regional Director will honour the legacy of those who have paved the way before them.