Dr. Indrajit Hazarika appointed new WHO representative in Angola

ANGOLA—Dr. Indrajit Hazarika has been appointed as the new Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Angola.

This appointment marks a pivotal moment in the country’s health sector, as Dr. Hazarika brings a wealth of experience in global health, strategic planning, and health system transformation.

His extensive background includes various senior positions at WHO and other international health organizations, making him an ideal candidate to lead WHO’s efforts in Angola.

The formal presentation of diplomatic credentials by Dr. Hazarika took place in Luanda, the capital city of Angola, where he met with Ambassador Esmeralda Mendonça, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.

This ceremony signifies the beginning of his mandate in Angola, during which he will focus on supporting and improving the country’s health sector.

His appointment comes at a critical time, as Angola faces several health challenges, including a current cholera outbreak.

Dr. Hazarika’s expertise aligns perfectly with WHO’s strategic priorities outlined in the 14th General Programme of Work and the WHO Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) 2023-2027 for Angola.

These priorities include strengthening health systems, providing integrated health services, preventing and controlling diseases, enhancing health security and disaster preparedness, and adopting multisectoral approaches to create healthier populations.

 By focusing on these areas, Dr. Hazarika aims to build a resilient health system that can effectively meet the needs of the Angolan population.

In recent years, WHO has made significant strides in improving Angola’s health landscape.

In 2024, significant achievements included the successful implementation of programs aimed at reducing the incidence and mortality rates of malaria and tuberculosis.

Other highlights were the expansion of services for neglected tropical diseases, the development of a strategy to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and the revitalization of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) initiative.

 Additionally, there was improved control over maternal and perinatal deaths, as well as national polio vaccination campaigns.

These efforts have been undertaken in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders.

Dr. Hazarika, an Indian national, is well-equipped for this role with his medical background and advanced degrees in health economics and public health.

He holds a doctorate in health economics from the University of Melbourne and a master’s degree in public health from Harvard University.

His previous roles include serving as a senior public health policy officer for the WHO globally and acting WHO Representative in Mauritius.

Expressing his commitment to his new role, Dr. Hazarika emphasized his dedication to advancing health in Angola.

“I am truly honored to take on this role and am deeply committed to advancing health in Angola,” he stated.

“Together, we will strive to build a resilient health system that can effectively meet the population’s needs, ensuring a healthier and brighter future for all.”

This commitment underscores his vision of working collaboratively with the Angolan government, UN agencies, development partners, academia, civil society, health professionals, and local communities to achieve health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and beyond. Also, follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.