By Our Reporter
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially announced the five candidates competing for the position of Regional Director for Africa, including Tanzania’s Prof. Mohamed Janabi. The election follows the passing of the previously elected director.
According to a statement published on the WHO website on March 14, 2025, the organization’s Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, confirmed the receipt of nominations from WHO member states in the African region.
“We have received highly qualified candidates who have demonstrated strong leadership in public health,” Dr. Tedros stated.
“This election is crucial in ensuring Africa continues to strengthen its healthcare systems and response capabilities.”
The candidates are Prof. Mohamed Janabi from Tanzania, Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d'Ivoire, Dr. Dramé Mohammed Lamine from Guinea, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo from Niger, and Prof. Mijiyawa Moustafa from Togo.
The WHO Regional Director for Africa is a key role responsible for leading health initiatives across the continent.
The elected official will shape policies, coordinate public health responses, and support African countries in strengthening their healthcare systems.
Prof. Mohamed Janabi’s nomination is a significant milestone for Tanzania, highlighting the country’s growing influence in global health leadership.
“I am honored to be nominated for this role,” Prof. Janabi said. “My goal is to ensure equitable healthcare access and strengthen public health systems across Africa”.
With vast experience in healthcare, he has held key positions, including Director of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) and currently as Tanzania’s Chief Medical Officer.
Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d'Ivoire is another notable contender, with experience in epidemic response and healthcare infrastructure.
“Our focus should be on building resilient health systems that can effectively respond to future outbreaks,” Dr. Yao noted.
Dr. Dramé Mohammed Lamine from Guinea has been instrumental in managing infectious diseases, particularly in response to Ebola outbreaks.
His leadership in strengthening healthcare systems positions him as a strong candidate. “Africa has made progress, but we must continue to invest in disease prevention and health security,” he emphasized.
Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo from Niger has extensive experience in health policy and development, working on initiatives to improve healthcare access across West Africa.
“Healthcare must be accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status,” Dr. Sambo remarked.
Prof. Mijiyawa Moustafa from Togo has significantly contributed to medical research and healthcare development.
His focus on universal health coverage aligns with WHO’s goals for Africa. “We must ensure no one is left behind in our journey toward better healthcare,” he said.
The election comes after the passing of the previously elected WHO Regional Director for Africa on November 27, 2024.
The new leader will address major health challenges such as pandemic preparedness, healthcare access, and disease eradication.
As the election process unfolds, African nations will closely monitor the candidates’ plans for strengthening healthcare systems.
The chosen Regional Director will play a crucial role in addressing Africa’s health challenges while promoting collaboration among member states.
Tanzania’s health sector will be watching closely, hoping that Prof. Janabi’s candidacy will highlight the country’s contributions to global healthcare.
If elected, he will have the opportunity to drive transformative health policies that benefit not only Tanzania but the entire African region.