By Elizabeth Godwin
Tanzanian cardiologist and seasoned health policy leader, Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, has been nominated as the next World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, following a special session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Geneva.
The nomination was put forward by President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania and comes in the wake of the sudden passing of the previous Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, in November 2024.
Pending formal approval by the WHO Executive Board on May 28–29, Janabi will assume the role for a five-year term (2025–2030), with the possibility of one reappointment. His nomination was selected from a pool of four candidates, which included representatives from Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Togo.
Born on December 25, 1962, Professor Janabi brings more than 30 years of experience in clinical medicine, hospital administration, and health systems reform. He is currently serving as Senior Health Advisor to President Hassan and as Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, the country’s leading referral institution. From 2014 to 2022, he was instrumental in transforming the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute into a regional hub for cardiovascular care.
His academic background includes medical and postgraduate training across Europe, Asia, and Australia, earning a Doctor of Medicine from Kharkiv Medical Institute, a Master of Tropical Health from Queensland, and a PhD and postdoctoral fellowship in Cardiology from Osaka University. He is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a Certified Aviation Medical Examiner recognized by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration.
The nomination was celebrated by the Tanzanian delegation and received commendation from WHO leadership. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus acknowledged Janabi’s technical expertise and leadership credentials, especially in light of the mounting health pressures across Africa—from emerging infectious diseases to climate-related health threats. Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Acting Regional Director, also extended congratulations and pledged a smooth transition.
Janabi’s portfolio will cover 47 member states in a region that carries over 25% of the global disease burden but is served by just 3% of the world’s health workforce. In his prior roles, he played a central role in advancing Tanzania’s push for universal health coverage, and he has been a vocal proponent of health equity and system resilience across the continent. He has also worked with international initiatives such as Madaktari Africa, focusing on deploying African-trained professionals to underserved areas.
In his acceptance speech, Janabi paid tribute to African solidarity and the continent’s ongoing health challenges. “Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa,” he said.
With this appointment, Tanzania strengthens its role in global health leadership, and Professor Janabi steps into a critical position at a time when the African Region faces a mix of persistent health threats and urgent calls for system-wide reform. His leadership is expected to shape WHO’s response to a broad spectrum of challenges, including noncommunicable diseases, pandemic preparedness, health financing gaps, and climate-related vulnerabilities.
As the region looks ahead, Janabi’s tenure will be closely watched—not only for how he builds on the legacy of those before him, but for how he helps chart a healthier future for millions across the continent.
