Prof. Janabi Joins WHO Africa Debate on April 2

Prof. Janabi to Face Off with Contenders in WHO Africa Regional Debate on April 2
Saturday, March 22, 2025

As the World Health Organization (WHO) prepares to appoint a new Regional Director for Africa, an official virtual debate featuring all nominated candidates is set to take place on April 2, 2025. The forum is designed to enhance transparency and allow contenders to present their vision for the future of healthcare on the continent.

Among the candidates vying for the prestigious role is Professor Mohammed Janabi, Tanzania’s nominee and the current Director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH). A distinguished cardiologist, researcher, and academic, Prof. Janabi brings decades of experience in public health leadership to the race.

He will be joined by Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Dramé Mohammed Lamine from Guinea, and Professor Mijiyawa Moustafa from Togo, in what promises to be a pivotal moment in the selection process.

According to WHO, the debate has been formally endorsed by member states of the WHO Africa Region as a vital component of the democratic election framework.

Louise Mapleh Kpoto, Liberia’s Minister of Health and Social Welfare and the current First Vice-Chair of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, will moderate the session.

Each candidate will be allotted approximately 20 minutes to outline their professional background, demonstrate their competencies, and articulate their strategic vision should they be appointed. The session also allows representatives of member states to ask questions — except those from the countries that nominated a candidate, who are expected to refrain from questioning their respective nominee.

The debate will be streamed live in English, French, and Portuguese via the WHO Africa Region’s official website and social media channels, ensuring accessible coverage across the continent and beyond.

This election follows the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, Tanzania’s former nominee and the elected WHO Regional Director for Africa. Dr. Ndugulile, a former Member of Parliament for Kigamboni, tragically died in India on November 27, 2024, while receiving medical treatment. He was scheduled to assume office in March 2025 after a six-month transition period, having been elected on August 27, 2024.

Dr. Ndugulile emerged victorious in a competitive race against candidates including Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo (Niger), Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao (Côte d’Ivoire), Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall (Senegal), and Dr. Richard Mihigo (Rwanda).

Following his death, Tanzania nominated Prof. Janabi for the vacant post, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan endorsing his candidacy, highlighting his extensive experience and qualifications as ideally suited for the role on the global stage.

The official election to appoint the new WHO Africa Regional Director is scheduled to take place on May 18, 2025.