Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the WHO regional director-elect for Africa, passed away while receiving medical treatment in India. The Tanzanian parliament speaker confirmed the news, noting that arrangements for his repatriation were underway. Ndugulile, aged 55, previously served in various ministerial roles and was set to commence his term with WHO in February 2025. His death has prompted condolences from officials and colleagues.
The regional director-elect for Africa at the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, has tragically passed away while undergoing treatment in India. This information was confirmed by Tanzania’s parliament speaker, Tulia Ackson, who announced that plans for repatriating his body were being organized and that further funeral plans would be disclosed subsequently. The specific nature of Dr. Ndugulile’s illness remains undisclosed.
Dr. Ndugulile, aged 55, had previously served not only as the member of parliament for Kigamboni Constituency but also held the position of health assistant minister from 2017 to 2020, followed by his role as the information and communication minister until 2021. In August 2023, he was elected as the WHO’s regional director for Africa and was preparing to assume his position in February 2025 and succeed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who had completed two terms in the role. He had expressed a strong dedication towards enhancing the health and well-being of African populations in his acceptance speech.
The news of Dr. Ndugulile’s passing has elicited a wave of condolences, including poignant messages from Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who described the loss as “devastating.” WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed his shock and sadness regarding this unexpected loss. Additionally, several fellow Tanzanian legislators remarked on his character, noting that he was a humble individual and advocated for a more considerate approach in parliament, contrasting with the typical demeanor exhibited by some of his colleagues in the ruling party.
The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a vital role in global health governance, with regional directors overseeing public health initiatives specific to their regions. The director-elect for the African region is responsible for strategizing health policies aimed at improving health outcomes across the continent. Dr. Ndugulile’s appointment followed a significant political career in Tanzania, where he contributed to the country’s health policies and programs.
The untimely death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile marks a significant loss for the health advocacy community in Africa. As the WHO Director for the African region, he was set to lead discussions on public health and policy implementation that could have impacted millions. His passing has not only led to expressions of grief from government officials but also reflections on his contributions to Tanzanian governance and public health.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
