Tanzania has put forward Professor Mohamed Janabi as the candidate for the position of Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) for Africa, aiming to improve healthcare across the region.
The hunt for a new regional leader comes after an unexpected
passing
Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a Tanzanian poised to take up his position, created history by becoming the inaugural individual from both his nation and the Eastern African zone to secure victory in the elections for the World Health Organization’s African regional office. Tragically, Dr. Ndugulile passed away on November 27, 2024, during medical care in India. This untimely demise happened just days prior to him taking the oath of office, leading to an unexpected gap in the leadership at WHO AFRO.
Dr. Ndugulile
was set to replace Dr. Matshidiso Moeti from Botswana, who held the position for ten years. After his passing,
WHO
appointed Nigeria’s
Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu
as interim regional director and reopened the selection process.
The Tanzanian government is currently uniting behind
Dr. Janabi
an eminent cardiologist and public health specialist as the perfect choice to continue this vital undertaking.
Janabi serves as the Executive Director of
Muhimbili National Hospital
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s primary referral hospital holds his position, and concurrently, he acts as a healthcare consultant to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Prior to this role, he served as the personal doctor to ex-President Jakaya Kikwete. This appointment occurs during an important period for the nation.
Africa
, as new infectious
diseases
new issues have arisen, and non-communicable diseases have become more common.
Dr. Janabi stated that his distinctive blend of experience, forward-thinking strategy, and dedication to health equity qualifies him as the perfect applicant. He brings a verified history of healthcare system leadership, creative problem resolution skills, along with an extensive knowledge of the varied health issues faced by Africa and the global community.
Vision
In his attempt to secure the position of WHO AFRO Director, Dr. Janabi envisions
healthier, more resilient
, and prosperous Africa where every individual has access to quality healthcare, and health systems are strong enough to meet future challenges.
This objective will be accomplished by establishing robust, equitable, and sustainable healthcare systems throughout the region. Within the coming 5 to 10 years, my goal is to improve health outcomes and overall wellness by reinforcing basic medical care, enhancing nutritional support services, increasing accessibility to vital medications, fostering local production capabilities, and utilizing scientific and technological advancements to address deficiencies in healthcare provision,” he stated.
His main focus is on attaining Universal Health Coverage by eliminating financial obstacles to crucial health services, bolstering primary care, and addressing both infectious and non-infectious ailments. Alongside enhancing early identification, treatment, and vaccination initiatives, his goals include fighting against both types of diseases.
He mentioned that the African region is facing a two-fold health challenge, dealing simultaneously with prevalent infectious diseases including malaria and HIV, and an increasing number of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Emphasizing the importance of tackling NCDs via public education initiatives, prompt diagnosis, and accessible treatments, he also highlighted how vital it is to combine various healthcare programs for these conditions.
In order to maintain and speed up advancements against illnesses such as malaria, meet the targets of 95% for HIV—known as the ‘three 95s’, and keep pushing toward eradicating polio, I will push for strong monitoring systems and immunization drives that focus on grassroots healthcare approaches. Through supporting local health workers—who form the core of basic medical services—I aim to guarantee that everyone receives necessary care right where they live,” he stated. “Furthermore, I will work towards sustaining ongoing financial support for scientific studies and improving distribution networks for pharmaceutical products and equipment.
“In addition to current strategies, I propose establishing real-time disease monitoring and smart systems, extending immunization initiatives to cover even the farthest-flung areas, and forming public-private collaborations for swift epidemic responses. Focusing on critical issues like new zoonotic illnesses would be key to promoting a One Health strategy,” stated Dr. Janabi.
Dr. Janabi emphasized that his tenure at Muhimbili National Hospital highlighted the significance of decentralizing healthcare services and maximizing available resources to bolster primary care, which he considers essential for achieving universal health coverage. Should he be chosen as the WHO AfroRegional Director, he intends to leverage his experience to fortify primary healthcare networks, refine referral processes, and focus on developing the workforce along with fostering collaborative efforts among stakeholders to upgrade health systems throughout Africa.
Nevertheless, the path forward remains competitive.
The competition for the WHO AFRO Director role includes four additional candidates.
strong candidates
All hailing from Francophone West African countries, each contributes their distinct skills and perspectives.
Togo’s Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa
,a previous Health Minister, is celebrated for promoting comprehensive healthcare access and spearheading pan-African initiatives aimed at preventing diseases as the Chair of the Africa CDC Governing Board.
Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo from Niger
A veteran healthcare administrator, possessing extensive international experience, concentrates on addressing health issues exacerbated by the climate emergency, promoting creative and cooperative answers.
Dr. Mohamed Lamine Drame from Guinea
He advocates for enhancing Africa’s capabilities in monitoring diseases and responding to outbreaks. He emphasizes the need for increased funding in healthcare facilities and training of personnel to strengthen overall preparedness, thereby building resilience.
Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire
,a pioneer in managing infectious diseases, underscores the significance of global cooperation to tackle Africa’s healthcare issues and fortify medical infrastructure.
Every contender presents a distinct strategy for addressing the critical healthcare demands of the continent, yet they all exhibit a strong inclination toward promoting Africa’s health priorities.
The latest update shows that Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo, nominated by Niger, has withdrawn from the race.
The election set for May 18, 2025, in Geneva occurs during a crucial period concerning the future direction of public health in Africa. The terms for WHO Regional Directors last initially five years, with the potential for being extended for another single term.
Dr. Janabi’s influence goes well past just policies, aiming to build a healthier and fairer tomorrow for Africa, ensuring that nobody gets left out.
He stated, ‘I aim to promote policies within African nations that merge climate adaptation with health planning efforts, including the creation of National Health Climate Change Adaptation Strategies. This involves constructing energy-efficient medical centers, enhancing water supply and sanitation systems, and educating healthcare professionals about managing climate-induced health threats. Furthermore, I will urge for the development of robust, flexible health frameworks designed to lessen the effects of climate change.’
Upon taking office, his primary focus will be to establish comprehensive health coverage by tackling disparities in medical accessibility, securing stable funding for healthcare systems that safeguard people from financial ruin, and encouraging community involvement in managing personal well-being.
“This will be supplemented by focusing on the well-being of my colleagues and enhancing the visibility of the nation’s office within all member states,” stated Dr. Janabi.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).