WHO Africa Director-Elect Dies at 55
The WHO Africa Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, has died at the age of 55. The Tanzanian lawmaker and medical doctor passed away on Wednesday morning in India, where he was undergoing treatment. His death marks a significant loss for global health leadership, especially in Africa, where he was poised to take over as the regional head of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Dr. Ndugulile was elected as the WHO Africa Director in August this year and was set to assume office in February 2025. His tenure would have succeeded Botswana’s Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who has completed two five-year terms. Known for his dedication to public health and advocacy, Dr. Ndugulile’s unexpected death has left the global health community in mourning.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed shock and deep sadness at the news, describing the loss as devastating. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan echoed these sentiments, offering condolences to the bereaved family.
The Legacy of WHO Africa Director Faustine Ndugulile
Dr. Ndugulile’s career as the WHO Africa Director was set to build on decades of significant contributions to public health. Before his election, he served as a member of Tanzania’s parliament for Kigamboni Constituency in Dar es Salaam and held various key government positions. His journey from a health ministry official to the WHO Africa Director-elect is a testament to his commitment to improving healthcare systems.
Between 2017 and 2020, Dr. Ndugulile served as Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Health, where he advocated for science-based policies during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. His stance often clashed with the controversial views of then-President John Magufuli, who was skeptical of the virus and dismissed global recommendations for mitigation.
Despite his removal from the health ministry in May 2020, Dr. Ndugulile continued to play an active role in politics and healthcare. He later became Tanzania’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, demonstrating his versatility in governance.
WHO Africa Director Advocates for Health Equity
As the WHO Africa Director-elect, Dr. Ndugulile pledged to prioritize equitable health solutions across the continent. His election in August came with promises to address critical health issues, including access to vaccines, public health infrastructure, and healthcare worker shortages.
During his acceptance speech, he emphasized collaboration and innovation, stating, “Together, we can build a healthier Africa.” His vision for Africa included advancing universal healthcare coverage and tackling systemic health disparities.
Dr. Ndugulile’s work extended beyond politics. Before joining parliament in 2010, he was instrumental in establishing Tanzania’s National Blood Transfusion Services in 2006, where he served as the founding program manager. His career also included working with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in South Africa.
Political Challenges for WHO Africa Director-Elect
Dr. Ndugulile’s advocacy for science-based health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted his commitment to evidence-based practices. He was vocal against traditional remedies promoted by President Magufuli, who downplayed the severity of the virus and encouraged unproven treatments.
His public warnings about the dangers of inhaling boiled herbs for COVID-19 treatment, which he argued could block respiratory pathways, underscored his scientific approach. His criticism of Magufuli’s dismissal of masks and lockdowns led to his removal from the health ministry in 2020, yet his stance earned him widespread respect among health professionals.
His resilience in the face of political challenges demonstrated his unwavering dedication to health advocacy, a quality that undoubtedly influenced his election as WHO Africa Director.
Remembering WHO Africa Director Faustine Ndugulile
The death of Dr. Ndugulile has left a significant void in Africa’s health leadership. His untimely passing marks the first time a WHO regional director-elect has died before assuming office. The political process to elect another director is both lengthy and complex, adding further uncertainty to this critical leadership role.
Funeral arrangements are underway to repatriate Dr. Ndugulile’s body to Tanzania, with formal announcements expected soon. The health community, both in Africa and globally, continues to mourn his loss while reflecting on his contributions to public health and governance.
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the outgoing WHO Africa Director, described his death as an immense loss to the continent. Ndugulile’s work laid a foundation for health advancements, and his vision for a healthier Africa will remain a guiding light for future leaders.
The death of the WHO Africa Director-elect serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and sacrifices faced by those working to improve global health. As Tanzania and the world mourn, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile’s legacy lives on as an inspiration to health professionals and policymakers dedicated to building a better future for Africa.
