Professor Janabi chosen as WHO Africa Regional Director nominee in Geneva

SWITZERLAND— In a special session held in Geneva ahead of the World Health Assembly, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi has been nominated as the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region.

This meeting was convened by Member States of the WHO African Region following the sudden and tragic passing of the previous Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, in November 2024.

The election process included several candidates: Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohammed Lamine Dramé from Guinea, Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa from Togo, and Professor Janabi.

 After careful consideration, Professor Janabi emerged as the nominee to lead the region.

His nomination will now be submitted for formal appointment during the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled to take place from May 28 to 29, 2025, in Geneva.

Once confirmed, Professor Janabi will serve a five-year term as Regional Director and will be eligible for reappointment for an additional term.

In his acceptance speech, Professor Janabi expressed his deep commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of people across Africa.

He thanked the Member States for their trust and pledged not to disappoint them.

He emphasized that their support reflects a shared determination to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa.

Professor Janabi also highlighted the many challenges facing the region, including infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases, climate change, and limited health financing.

He called for harnessing the resilience and unity of African nations to overcome these obstacles.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, warmly congratulated Professor Janabi on his nomination and praised the other candidates for their dedication and campaigns.

He also extended congratulations to the United Republic of Tanzania, Professor Janabi’s home country.

Dr. Tedros acknowledged that Professor Janabi will assume leadership at a critical time for both the African Region and WHO globally.

He expressed confidence that Professor Janabi’s experience and expertise will help guide the organization to become stronger, more focused, and more effective in addressing future health challenges.

 Dr. Tedros looks forward to the Executive Board’s appointment and to collaborating with Professor Janabi to promote a healthier, safer, and fairer Africa.

Additionally, Dr. Tedros thanked Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his leadership during the transition period following the end of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term.

Dr. Ihekweazu also congratulated Professor Janabi, recognizing that his election reflects the strong trust placed in him by Member States.

 He acknowledged the significant progress made in health across Africa but reminded that the region still faces complex challenges.

 Dr. Ihekweazu assured Professor Janabi of his full support, along with that of the entire WHO Africa team, as he takes on this vital role to serve the people of the continent.

This nomination marks a hopeful step forward for the WHO African Region as it continues to tackle pressing health issues and improve the lives of millions across Africa.

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