Ndugulile poised to hit ground running, promises results

DODOMA: Dr Faustine Ndugulile, the newly elected World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, is ready to tackle the challenges of his new role head-on. With a clear focus on four key areas, Dr Ndugulile aims to place the needs of ordinary African citizens at the centre of healthcare service delivery.

Elected to this prestigious position on August 28 during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Brazzaville, Congo, Dr Ndugulile, the former Deputy Minister for Health and Kigamboni Member of Parliament, will succeed Dr Matshidiso Moeti.

Moeti served two five-year terms as Regional Director. Dr Ndugulile is the first Tanzanian and East African to assume this role since its inception 72 years ago.

In a statement to the National Assembly yesterday, following his official welcome by Deputy Speaker Mussa Azzan Zungu, Dr Ndugulile described his election as a victory for Tanzania and the entire African continent.

While acknowledging the progress Africa has made in the health sector, Dr Ndugulile emphasised that substantial challenges remain before the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline.

His campaign focused on four key areas: ensuring access to health services for all Africans, preparing the continent for pandemics such as Covid-19 and Mpox, fostering unique cooperation among African institutions—including parliaments—and strengthening the WHO’s presence in Africa to maximise resource benefits.

“I am currently preparing for my new role. I have been given six months to organise myself, understand the organisation’s operations and develop my vision.

This preparation will ensure that I can start effectively when I begin my tenure in March,” Dr Ndugulile said.

He called upon Members of Parliament to continue their support and prayers, noting, “This position embodies the vision of our country and the aspirations of Africa. Expectations are high and I am committed to meeting them.”

Dr Ndugulile also expressed his gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for endorsing his candidacy and supporting his campaign.

“Her backing was crucial. The President championed this campaign, engaging with leaders both internationally and domestically,” he said.

He further thanked the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr Tulia Ackson, for her efforts in rallying support from fellow Speakers and campaigning on his behalf.

As the first Tanzanian and East African to assume this role, Dr Ndugulile will oversee the health sector for 47 African countries, serving a population of 1.5 billion people.

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He acknowledged the competitive nature of the election but attributed his success to the collective efforts of Tanzanians, including Members of Parliament, Ministers and Tanzanian ambassadors abroad.

Dr Ndugulile will be based in Brazzaville, Congo and will officially begin his duties at the end of February or the beginning of March 2025, following a six-month transition period.