WHO Africa Director-elect Dr Ndugulile Dies Before Role
Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the incoming regional director of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Africa, has passed away just three months after his election to the prestigious position. The 55-year-old Tanzanian lawmaker and medical doctor died on Wednesday morning in India while receiving treatment. His sudden death has shocked both the Tanzanian nation and the global health community, as he was set to assume office in February 2024.
Ndugulile was widely respected for his significant contributions to both politics and public health. Prior to his election as WHO’s Africa regional director, he had a distinguished career, notably serving as Tanzania’s deputy health minister and later as the communications minister under President John Magufuli. His role as a health leader in Tanzania was particularly notable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he publicly disagreed with President Magufuli’s unorthodox stance on the virus.
In 2020, during his tenure as deputy health minister, Ndugulile publicly opposed Magufuli’s refusal to implement health measures like mask-wearing and social distancing. His stance, which included warnings against traditional remedies for COVID-19 such as steam inhalation, ultimately led to his dismissal. Despite the political fallout, Ndugulile continued his commitment to public health, advocating for evidence-based practices.
In August 2023, he was elected as the new WHO regional director for Africa, a position he was due to assume in February 2024. His election was seen as a testament to his extensive experience and dedication to improving health systems across Africa. Following the announcement of his death, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his deep sorrow, describing Ndugulile as a dedicated leader with a vision for the continent’s health.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu also conveyed her condolences, highlighting the immense loss to both Tanzania and the global health community. The reasons for his medical treatment have not been disclosed, but his passing has left a void in the leadership of the WHO’s Africa office.
Ndugulile’s career spanned both health and political sectors. Before entering politics in 2010, he worked in Tanzania’s health ministry, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the National Blood Transfusion Services. His work also included stints with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in South Africa, where he helped tackle public health issues across the continent.
The news of Ndugulile’s untimely death has reverberated throughout the global health community. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the outgoing regional director for Africa, described his passing as an “immense loss,” noting that it marked the first time in history that a WHO regional director-elect has died before taking office.
The election process for a new regional director is expected to be lengthy and complex, raising questions about who will succeed Ndugulile in this vital role. For now, his family, colleagues, and the global health community are left to reflect on the legacy he leaves behind—one defined by a deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of the African continent. NNPC Defends Port Harcourt Refinery, Addresses Claims
