Renowned cardiologist Janabi nominated by Tanzania for WHO Africa Director

TANZANIA—Tanzania has officially nominated Professor Mohamed Janabi as its candidate for the position of World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa.

This move comes after the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a Tanzanian who had been elected to the role but died before taking office.

Dr. Ndugulile’s death created a significant void in the leadership of WHO’s Africa office, which is currently being filled on an interim basis by Nigeria’s Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu.

Professor Janabi, a renowned cardiologist and public health expert, is well-positioned to lead this critical mission.

He serves as the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania’s premier referral facility, and is a health advisor to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Previously, he was the personal physician to former President Jakaya Kikwete.

With his extensive experience and strategic vision, Janabi is confident in his ability to address Africa’s diverse health challenges.

 Janabi’s nomination comes at a pivotal moment for Africa, as the continent grapples with emerging infectious diseases and a rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases.

 He envisions a healthier, more resilient Africa where everyone has access to quality healthcare.

To achieve this, he plans to create resilient, inclusive, and sustainable health systems across the continent.

Over the next decade, he aims to enhance health outcomes by strengthening primary healthcare, improving nutrition services, expanding access to essential medicines, and leveraging science and technology to bridge healthcare gaps.

 Janabi’s priorities include achieving Universal Health Coverage by removing financial barriers to essential services and tackling both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

 He emphasizes the importance of addressing non-communicable diseases through awareness campaigns, early detection, and affordable treatment.

 Additionally, he plans to strengthen early detection, management, and immunization efforts to combat diseases like malaria and HIV.

However, Dr. Janabi faces competition from other strong candidates. Initially, there were five contenders, including Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Dramé Mohammed Lamine from Guinea, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo from Niger, and Prof. Mijiyawa Moustafa from Togo.

Recently, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo withdrew his candidacy, leaving four candidates in the race.

Each candidate brings unique expertise and vision to the table, but they all share a commitment to advancing Africa’s health agenda.

The election for the WHO AFRO Director position is scheduled for May 18, 2025, in Geneva.

This critical vote will determine the future of Africa’s public health landscape. WHO Regional Directors serve a five-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for an additional term.

If elected, Janabi plans to prioritize universal health coverage, sustainable health financing, and community empowerment.

He also aims to integrate climate adaptation into health planning and build resilient health systems capable of mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Tanzania is rallying behind Janabi, confident in his leadership abilities and experience.

The government has launched a diplomatic campaign to garner support for his candidacy, emphasizing his qualifications and vision for a healthier Africa.

As the election approaches, Janabi’s leadership extends beyond policy to create a more equitable future for Africa, where no one is left behind.

His commitment to strengthening primary healthcare, improving health systems, and addressing Africa’s dual burden of disease makes him a strong contender for the role.