The World Health Organisation (WHO) Africa Regional Director-elect, Faustine Ndugulile, has passed away. He died on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Born in 1969, Ndugulile was a distinguished Tanzanian politician and a renowned public health expert. In August 2024, he was nominated to become the next Regional Director for the WHO African Region, succeeding Matshidiso Moeti, who completed two five-year terms in the position.
Ndugulile’s nomination was endorsed by African member states during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. His appointment was set to be confirmed by the WHO Executive Board at its 156th session in February 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland.
WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed his shock at Ndugulile’s sudden passing.
The WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Mulombo Kazadi, also shared his grief on social media, saying, “We didn’t need this now. We are devastated. Sad news for Africa and the world. We give glory to Almighty God because only He knows why. We thank God for his life and the inspiration he brought, albeit for a very short time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Hassan, also mourned his loss, sharing her condolences on social media.
