Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a prominent Tanzanian politician and medical doctor, passed away in India during treatment. Known for his stance during the Covid-19 pandemic, he was set to become the WHO Africa director in February 2024, following his election in August 2023.
Tragic Loss: WHO Africa's Incoming Director Dr. Faustine Ndugulile Passes Away at 55
Tragic Loss: WHO Africa's Incoming Director Dr. Faustine Ndugulile Passes Away at 55
The recently elected WHO African Region director, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, has died at the age of 55, just three months after his election.
The incoming regional director of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Africa, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile from Tanzania, tragically died at the age of 55 while undergoing treatment in India on Wednesday. His death comes a mere three months after he was elected to the prestigious position in August 2023, indicating a significant loss for the organization and the continent as a whole.
Ndugulile, who held dual qualifications as a medical doctor and a lawmaker, was widely recognized for his courageous stance against former President John Magufuli during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, when he served as deputy minister of health. His proactive approach included advocating for scientifically supported health measures during a time when the president was skeptical of the virus’s severity.
Following his election, where he was chosen to succeed Botswana's Dr. Matshidiso Moeti after her two five-year terms, Ndugulile was expected to officially assume the director role in February 2024. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his profound shock and sadness at the news. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu also extended her condolences to Ndugulile's family, highlighting the loss felt within the nation and the broader health community.
Before his election to lead the WHO’s Africa division, Ndugulile had a commendable career both in public health and politics. He represented the Kigamboni constituency and held pivotal roles including the deputy minister for health, a position he assumed in 2017 before being dismissed in May 2020, ostensibly due to his viewpoints on public health measures amid the pandemic.
A notable figure in the development of health policies, Ndugulile was instrumental in establishing Tanzania’s National Blood Transfusion Services and had previously worked with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in South Africa. His election was a reflection of not only his experience but also his dedication to global health initiatives.
Ndugulile's commitment to advancing health reforms within Africa was demonstrated by his declaration upon election, promising collaboration towards a healthier future for the continent. The outgoing regional director, Dr. Moeti, called his passing an "immense loss," noting it as unprecedented in the history of the WHO, marking the first time a regional director-elect has died prior to taking office.
The political process to elect another director is anticipated to be complex and lengthy, leaving a significant gap in leadership at a critical time for health across the African region.
