Joseph Isangura
The World Health Organization (WHO) has appointed Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu as the Acting Regional Director for Africa, following the end of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s influential term in office.
Dr. Moeti’s decade-long leadership was marked by significant strides in strengthening healthcare systems across the African continent, a legacy that will continue to impact the region.
Dr. Ihekweazu steps into this role after the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, who had been chosen to take up the position in March 2025. Dr. Ndugulile, a Tanzanian, tragically passed away on November 27, 2024, while receiving medical treatment in India, cutting short a promising tenure before it could even begin. He had been poised to make history as the first Tanzanian and East African Community member to serve as the WHO Regional Director for Africa.
Following Dr. Ndugulile’s passing, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan addressed the nation in a solemn farewell ceremony in Dar es Salaam on December 2, 2024. In her speech, she acknowledged the loss of Dr. Ndugulile but reassured the country that the search for a new candidate would continue. She expressed that Tanzania would remain committed to nominating qualified candidates for future leadership positions at the WHO and other international organizations.
“We will enter the competition again and seek a qualified Tanzanian who can compete on the global stage,” President Samia remarked. Her words echoed Tanzania’s ongoing ambition to play a leading role in international health governance.
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In an important step forward, President Samia formally nominated Prof. Mohamed Janabi as Tanzania’s candidate for the WHO Regional Director position on December 10, 2024, during a swearing-in ceremony in Zanzibar. Prof. Janabi, currently the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, is highly regarded for his extensive healthcare experience and leadership in one of Tanzania’s largest medical institutions. President Hassan highlighted his impressive qualifications and noted that his nomination was a reflection of Tanzania’s commitment to global health leadership.
With these developments, Tanzania has reaffirmed its dedication to playing an active role in the global health community, especially at a time when the world faces numerous health challenges. The appointment of Dr. Ihekweazu as Acting Regional Director for Africa will bring a new dynamic to the WHO’s leadership, while the future of Tanzania’s leadership within the organization remains an ongoing journey.
