Task ahead for Ndugulile as WHO Africa head

Dr Ndugulile’s five-year term, set to begin in February 2025 during the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board in Geneva, will tackle numerous health challenges across the continent.

Key issues include managing epidemic outbreaks such as Mpox, Ebola, Dengue, Yellow Fever, Zika, Chikungunya, Cholera, Meningitis, Measles, Rift Valley Fever and Covid-19, among others.

He has been elected to the position at a time when several western countries have pledged to donate doses of Mpox vaccines to combat an outbreak of the disease in Africa after the WHO declared it a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.

WHO data show that so far this year, 12 countries in the African region have reported Mpox cases.

In total, more than 15,000 suspected cases have been reported since the beginning of this year. Out of these, over 3500 cases are laboratory-confirmed, including 26 deaths.

WHO is working with national authorities and partners to strengthen response measures in the affected countries and step up preparedness in countries yet to report cases.

Dr Ndugulile, who currently serves as the Member of Parliament for Kigamboni in Dar es Salaam, becomes the first East African to hold the position of WHO Africa Regional Director since the establishment of the WHO Africa office 72 years ago.

Dr Ndugulile’s election comes as the current Regional Director, Dr Matshidiso Moeti from Botswana, prepares to step down.

Moeti, who has held the role since 2015, was the first woman to serve in this position.

In a recent speech, Dr Ndugulile highlighted the need for universal health coverage, health promotion, and strengthened health systems.

He emphasised his commitment to ensuring Africa has access to the best health services, enhancing readiness for epidemic diseases, and improving accountability and communication among WHO Africa Region member states.

During the nomination process, Dr Ndugulile addressed questions from various health ministers regarding his approach to epidemic diseases and funding challenges, particularly in the context of climate change.

He pledged to collaborate with regional members and stakeholders to develop data-driven solutions.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated Dr Ndugulile, expressing confidence that his expertise will significantly benefit the African continent.

“Your expertise and experience in the health sector will enable Africa to have a vital voice on the global stage in tackling health challenges for millions of our people,” said President Hassan.

Dr Ally Olotu, Director of Science at the Ifakara Health Institute, praised Dr Ndugulile’s extensive experience in health promotion and his previous roles as Deputy Minister of Health and Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS, Maternal, and Child Health.

“His leadership skills and vision will help WHO AFRO to make rapid progress and achieve the aspirations of its members,” said Dr Olotu.

Dr Ndugulile’s nomination stands out among candidates from Rwanda, Niger, and Senegal, including Dr Richard Mihigo, Dr Boureima Hama Sambo, and Dr Ibrahima Socé.

With a background in public health and medical microbiology, Dr Ndugulile has served as a Member of Parliament since 2010, held various leadership roles in health committees, and was appointed as the first Minister of Communication and Information Technology in December 2020.

His tenure in government has been marked by the development of strategic plans for broadband and cybersecurity, as well as promoting innovation and new ICT technologies.

As the confirmation process continues, Dr Ndugulile’s appointment is eagerly anticipated, promising to bring a new perspective and dynamic leadership to the WHO Africa Regional Office.