Tanzania kicks off diplomatic campaign for Janabi’s WHO bid

TANZANIA – Tanzania has kicked off a major diplomatic campaign to support Prof. Mohamed Janabi as its nominee for the position of World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa.

Leading this high-level lobbying effort is none other than former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, who has been appointed as a special envoy by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

So far, Kikwete has held talks with key leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and officials in Niger, as he promotes Janabi’s candidacy.

The renewed effort comes in the aftermath of an unexpected tragedy. In late 2024, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile—also from Tanzania—was elected as WHO-AFRO’s new regional director.

He was set to become the first Tanzanian and East African to hold the post. However, just days before his swearing-in, Ndugulile passed away while receiving treatment in India, leaving the position vacant.

Following his death, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu from Nigeria was appointed interim director, and the selection process was reopened.

In stepping forward with Prof. Mohamed Janabi, Tanzania is nominating a highly respected figure in medicine and public health.

Janabi is currently the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, the country’s top referral facility.

He also serves as a health advisor to President Samia and was previously the personal physician to former President Kikwete. His career reflects a deep understanding of both clinical practice and health system management.

His nomination comes at a time when Africa’s health challenges are growing. The continent is dealing with an increase in non-communicable diseases like diabetes and heart disease, while also continuing to battle outbreaks of infectious diseases such as Ebola and COVID-19.

Tanzania believes that Janabi’s experience in hospital leadership, policy advising, and frontline care makes him well suited to lead WHO-AFRO in addressing these issues.