WHO Africa Director-Elect Dr. Faustine Ndugulile Passes Away in India

Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the WHO regional director-elect for Africa, died in India at 55. Elected in August 2023 to take office in February 2025, he previously served as Tanzania’s health assistant minister and parliament member. President Suluhu Hassan and WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed their condolences. Arrangements for his body repatriation are underway.

Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the recently elected regional director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) for Africa, passed away while undergoing medical treatment in India. The news was confirmed by Tanzania’s parliament speaker, Tulia Ackson, who stated that arrangements to repatriate his body were in progress, and further details regarding funeral services would be disclosed later. Ndugulile was 55 years old and had not been identified with a specific illness prior to his passing.

Dr. Ndugulile was a distinguished figure in Tanzanian politics, serving as a member of parliament for the Kigamboni Constituency in Dar es Salaam. His previous roles included assistant minister for health from 2017 to 2020 and as the minister for information and communication until 2021. He was appointed to lead the WHO’s African operations in August and was scheduled to assume his duties in February 2025, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who held the position for two consecutive terms.

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her condolences via the social media platform X, describing his death as devastating. Furthermore, WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus conveyed his shock and sadness at the loss of Ndugulile. Colleagues in parliament and various Tanzanian legislators also shared sentiments highlighting his humility and gentleness during his tenure in public service.

The sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile marks a significant loss for both Tanzanian politics and the African health sector. Elected as the WHO regional director for Africa, he was set to lead efforts in enhancing health outcomes across the continent. His extensive experience in health policy and communication positioned him as a key figure to make impactful changes within WHO, following two terms of leadership by Dr. Moeti. Ndugulile’s commitment to health advancements was evident in his acceptance speech, underlining the role of effective governance in improving public health for Africans.

In conclusion, the untimely death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile not only affects his family and friends but also the future direction of health management in Africa under the WHO. His diverse contributions to health and governance were poised to influence many lives, revealing the significant impact leadership has on global health issues. Dr. Ndugulile’s legacy is thus one of dedication to public service and commitment to the well-being of people across the continent.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com