Tanzanian elected head of regional health community

Dar es Salaam. The Director of Preventive Services at Tanzania's Ministry of Health, Dr Ntuli Kapologwe, has been elected the new Director General of the East, Central, and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC). 

Dr Kapologwe beat six other candidates in Wednesday’s election in Malawi.

He succeeds Prof Yoswa Dambisya of Uganda, who served two five-year terms. In line with the Community's regulations, Dr Kapologwe will serve a five-year term. 

Speaking after the election, Tanzania's Health minister Jenista Mhagama said 47 candidates initially applied for the position. After preliminary screening, seven were shortlisted.

Following interviews conducted by the Committee of Permanent Secretaries from member countries, Dr Kapologwe emerged as the top candidate, advancing to the final stage alongside two competitors from Kenya and Malawi. 

Their names were then presented to the ECSA-HC General Assembly, where Dr Kapolongwe was declared the winner. 

Ms Mhagama said his victory demonstrates Tanzania's continued recognition on the global stage, showcasing its pool of highly qualified professionals capable of leading international organisations and significantly contributing to global health advancements. 

“This is the second time Tanzania has held this position in the 51-year history of the Community. The first Tanzanian to serve in this role was Dr Winnie Mpanju, who held the post from 1993 to 2000. It is a remarkable achievement for Tanzania to secure this position again after 27 years,” she said.

Established in 1974, ECSA-HC comprises nine member countries: Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Lesotho, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Uganda and Eswatini. It also collaborates with 13 non-member countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Eritrea, Gabon, Liberia, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia. 

Following the announcement, the Tanzanian delegation celebrated the victory, congratulating their nominee, who was endorsed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan. 

ECSA-HC is dedicated to promoting and strengthening regional cooperation to address health challenges among member countries, including sharing best practices and experiences to improve healthcare services.