The passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile in August 2024 has left a significant void in the leadership of the World Health Organization’s Africa office, setting the stage for a competitive selection process to fill the role of Regional Director. Dr. Ndugulile, a respected public health expert from Tanzania, had been elected to this prestigious post and was slated to begin his tenure in March 2025. His election marked a historic moment, as he would have become the first individual from the East African Community to head the WHO Africa office. His untimely death has not only shocked the health community but also halted plans for much-anticipated reforms aimed at transforming the healthcare landscape across the African continent.
Following this unexpected development, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus initiated a fresh selection process and formally submitted the names of five candidates to Member States for consideration. These candidates bring diverse backgrounds and a wealth of experience in public health, health administration, and disease control. The new Regional Director will be entrusted with overseeing healthcare policy across Africa, coordinating responses to public health emergencies, and addressing pressing issues such as the effects of climate change on health systems and the chronic underfunding of healthcare services.
Among the shortlisted candidates is Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi from Tanzania. As the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital and a senior health advisor to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Prof. Janabi has been at the forefront of medical innovation, particularly in cardiology. His leadership at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and his advisory role under former President Jakaya Kikwete have positioned him as a key figure in the development of Tanzania’s healthcare infrastructure.
Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao of Côte d’Ivoire is another strong contender, renowned for his research in infectious diseases and his significant contributions to public health policy. Dr. Yao has held leadership roles at WHO’s headquarters in Geneva as well as its African regional office, providing him with a deep understanding of global and regional health dynamics. His academic contributions and practical experience make him a compelling candidate for the role.
Guinea’s Dr. Dramé Mohammed Lamine brings with him extensive expertise in maternal and child health, as well as infectious disease management. His involvement in various health initiatives aimed at reducing mortality and improving healthcare access in West Africa has been critical in strengthening health systems in the region. His focus on disease prevention and systemic reform reflects the urgent needs facing many African countries.
Representing Niger, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo offers over three decades of experience in global health. He currently serves as the WHO Representative in the Democratic Republic of Congo and has previously led WHO missions in Ethiopia, Gabon, and Rwanda. His work has largely centered around health security, climate and health policy, and primary healthcare, all essential areas for Africa’s health future.
Lastly, Professor Mijiyawa Moustafa of Togo, a former Minister of Health and an experienced rheumatologist, has overseen major public health reforms in his country. His efforts in enhancing access to medicines and managing healthcare financing have earned him recognition for driving meaningful change in healthcare delivery.
The choice of Regional Director for WHO Africa will be a defining moment for the continent, especially at a time when Africa faces numerous health challenges ranging from disease outbreaks to the need for resilient health systems. Member States are now tasked with selecting a leader who can carry forward the vision laid out by Dr. Ndugulile and ensure the WHO Africa office remains a pillar of support for the continent’s public health needs. The outcome of this election will have a lasting impact on the future direction of health policies and initiatives across Africa.
