Tanzanian medical doctor to head AU top post

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIAN medical doctor Dr John Rwegasha has been appointed as the Head of the Medical Services Unit at the African Union Commission (AU), based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Dr Rwegasha is the Director of Medical Services at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).

During a farewell meeting with the MNH management over the weekend, Dr Rwegasha expressed his gratitude for the opportunity.

“I am deeply thankful to God for this position, which was highly competitive, with candidates from seven African countries vying for it,” said Dr Rwegasha.

He underlined the significance of the role in advancing healthcare across the continent.

“This is not just a personal achievement but also an opportunity to represent Tanzania and contribute to the health sector in Africa. I am ready for the challenge,” he added.

Reflecting on his time at MNH, Dr Rwegasha said, “The progress we’ve made in advancing medical care at MNH has been remarkable and I hope to bring the same commitment and innovation to the AU.”

MNH Executive Director Professor Mohamed Janabi, who also serves as the Presidential Advisor on Health and Medical Affairs, congratulated Dr Rwegasha on his appointment. He wished him success and encouraged him to represent Tanzania effectively in his new role at the AU.

“Dr Rwegasha has made immense contributions to healthcare at Muhimbili and in Tanzania at large. We are confident he will represent our country with excellence in his new role,” said Prof Janabi.

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Prof Janabi extended his well wishes: “On behalf of MNH and the country, I wish him success in his work at the AU. Tanzania is proud of his accomplishments.”

Dr Rwegasha’s career is marked by notable achievements, including the establishment of MNH’s Gastroenterology and Hepatology Centre in 2013.

Dr Rwegasha holds a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Makerere University, a Master of Medicine degree from Aga Khan University in Kenya, a Master of Science in Leadership from Mzumbe University, a Diploma in Health Management from the University of Washington and various professional certifications from institutions in the UK and South Africa.

He is set to assume his new role in February 2025.