John AdoyiTanzanian public health expert, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, has been nominated as the next Regional Director for the World Health Organisation (WHO) African Region. The nomination took place in Geneva on 18 May 2025 during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held ahead of the World Health Assembly.
This nomination comes after a tragic turn of events that saw the sudden death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the former Regional Director-elect, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 55. Dr. Ndugulile, a medical doctor and former Tanzanian Minister of Communication and Information Technology, died while receiving treatment in India, just months before he was scheduled to assume office.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe nomination of Professor Janabi was announced by Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto, Liberia’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare and Chairperson of the session. She stated, “The Regional Committee, considering Article 52 of the Constitution, and in accordance with Rule 52 of its Rules of Procedure, nominates Prof Mohammed Yakub Janabi as Regional Director for the African Region.”
Professor Janabi was selected following a competitive election process that featured several high-profile candidates from across the continent. Among those who vied for the position were Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed Lamine Dramé from Guinea, and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa from Togo. After consultations and voting by Member States of the African Region, Janabi emerged as the preferred candidate.
His nomination will be submitted for final approval at the 157th WHO Executive Board meeting scheduled for 28 to 29 May 2025 in Geneva. Upon confirmation, he will serve a five-year term with the possibility of renewal.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Janabi expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and outlined his vision for a healthier and more resilient African continent. “Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down,” he said. “Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa. We must harness African resilience and unity to overcome the pressing health challenges we face.”
He highlighted key issues that will shape his tenure, including the fight against infectious and non-communicable diseases, addressing the health impacts of climate change, and tackling persistent gaps in health financing. Janabi emphasized the importance of regional solidarity, investment in health systems, and advancing universal health coverage as foundational strategies for the continent’s progress.
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The nomination has been warmly received by WHO leadership. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Professor Janabi and acknowledged the strength of all the candidates who contested the election. He said, “Professor Janabi will take the reins at an unprecedented time for the African Region. We are grateful for his experience and expertise as we work together to navigate the challenges we face and position WHO to be stronger, sharper, and more effective.”
Professor Janabi brings decades of experience in public health and health systems management. Before his nomination, he served in several leadership roles within Tanzania’s Ministry of Health and was actively involved in shaping regional and global health responses, including pandemic preparedness and efforts toward universal health coverage. His appointment is seen as a significant step for the continent, especially as Africa continues to grapple with emerging health threats, vaccine inequity, and the rising burden of chronic diseases.
If confirmed by the Executive Board later this month, Professor Janabi will officially assume office in June 2025. He will succeed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti of Botswana, who served as WHO Regional Director for Africa from 2015 to 2024 and was the first woman to hold the position. Janabi’s leadership is expected to mark a new chapter in the continent’s pursuit of stronger, more equitable healthcare systems.
