WHO nominates Dr. Faustine Ndugulile as next regional director for Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has nominated Dr. Faustine Ndugulile as the next Regional Director for its African Region. This decision was made during the Seventy-fourth session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.

Dr. Ndugulile, a former Tanzanian Minister of Health, was selected by African Member States over three other candidates: Dr. Boureima Sambo of Niger, Dr. Ibrahima Fall of Senegal, and Dr. Richard Mihigo of Rwanda.

His nomination will be submitted to the WHO Executive Board for appointment at its 156th session in February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. If confirmed, Dr. Ndugulile will succeed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who has served two consecutive five-year terms.

Upon his nomination, Dr. Ndugulile expressed his commitment to advancing health across Africa, stating, “I’m truly honoured and humbled to be elected to the position of WHO Regional Director for Africa. I thank Member States for the trust shown in me, and I believe that together we can build a healthier Africa.”

Dr Matshidiso Moeti, Regional Director for the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region;
Dr Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile, incoming Regional Director for WHO African Region and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo on 27/08/2024. Photo credit: WHO / Daniel Elombat

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Dr. Ndugulile on his nomination and praised his extensive experience in public health. He also commended the outgoing Regional Director, Dr. Moeti, for her decade of service and leadership, which has significantly improved health outcomes in Africa.

The WHO Regional Committee for Africa serves as the organization’s decision-making body for the region, meeting annually to set health policies and strategies. This year’s session, held from August 26 to August 30, was pivotal in electing the new Regional Director.

The appointment of a Regional Director is for a five-year term, with the possibility of reappointment. The process involves nominations from member states, followed by an election through a secret ballot by the Regional Committee. Dr. Ndugulile’s nomination reflects a vote of confidence from African Member States in his ability to lead the region towards better health outcomes.