Tanzania launches diplomatic push for Prof Mohamed Janabi to head WHO Africa office
To spearhead the lobbying effort, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has deployed former President Jakaya Kikwete as a special envoy, highlighting the high-level importance Tanzania places on the race.
Tanzania has launched a robust diplomatic campaign in support of Prof Mohamed Janabi, its candidate for the position of World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa.
The East African nation is making a strong case for Janabi as the ideal successor to lead the continent's health agenda at a critical moment in global public health.
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To spearhead the lobbying effort, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has deployed former President Jakaya Kikwete as a special envoy, highlighting the high-level importance Tanzania places on the race.
Kikwete has so far conducted strategic visits to Ethiopia and Niger, where he held talks with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and leaders of Niger's ruling junta.
Tanzania's renewed push comes in the wake of a tragic leadership vacuum at WHO-AFRO.
Dr Faustine Ndugulile, a respected Tanzanian politician and medical doctor, had won the election to become the new regional director and was set to be the first from both Tanzania and East Africa to hold the role but he passed away unexpectedly on November 27, 2024, while undergoing treatment in India — just days before taking the oath of office.
His death left a leadership void at WHO-AFRO, and Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu of Nigeria was appointed as interim director while the selection process was reopened.
In nominating Prof Mohamed Janabi, the Tanzanian government is positioning a seasoned cardiologist, hospital executive, and public health advisor as the candidate to carry forward the mantle left by Ndugulile.
Janabi currently serves as the executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, Tanzania's top national referral hospital, and is a health advisor to President Samia.
He also previously served as the personal physician to former President Jakaya Kikwete — a background that blends both frontline clinical experience and strategic health leadership.
His nomination comes at a critical time for the continent, as Africa faces a dual burden of rising non-communicable diseases and the persistent threat of emerging infectious diseases.
Tanzania believes Janabi brings the expertise and vision needed to lead WHO-AFRO into its next chapter.
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