WHO nominates Janabi as Africa regional director

SWITZERLAND – The World Health Organization (WHO) has nominated Professor Mohamed Janabi as the next Regional Director for Africa.

The announcement was made during a special session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Geneva ahead of the upcoming World Health Assembly.

This special meeting was convened following the sudden death of Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, in November 2024. Dr. Ndugulile, who hailed from Tanzania, passed away while receiving treatment in India.

Once officially appointed, Professor Janabi will lead WHO’s Africa office, which oversees health efforts across 47 countries.

His leadership comes at a critical moment, as the continent continues to recover from the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and faces fresh health and economic challenges.

Other candidates who were considered for the position included Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohammed Dramé from Guinea, and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa from Togo.

Janabi’s nomination will now go before the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for May 28–29 in Geneva.

If confirmed, he will assume office for a five-year term, with the possibility of one reappointment.

In his acceptance speech, Janabi thanked the member states for their confidence and pledged to work toward improving healthcare outcomes across Africa.

“Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down,” he said. “Your support reflects our shared commitment to build a stronger, healthier, and more united Africa.

“As we continue to face challenges like infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases, climate change, and limited health funding, we must draw strength from our unity and resilience.”

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Janabi on his nomination and praised all the candidates for their dedication and vision.

Dr. Tedros noted that Janabi steps into this role at a pivotal time for both the continent and the organization. If confirmed, Janabi will become the key figure shaping WHO’s health agenda across Africa,