DAR ES SALAAM: WITH a track record spanning decades in public health, Prof. Mohamed Yakub Janabi stands as a formidable candidate for the position of Regional Director for Africa at the World Health Organization (WHO-AFRO).
Backed by the Tanzanian government, Janabi’s campaign promises a transformative approach to healthcare on the continent, built on resilience, modernization, and sovereignty.
Janabi’s candidacy comes at a crucial time for Africa’s health sector, which faces mounting challenges from climate change, pandemics, and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases. His manifesto, “Building a Healthier Africa, Together,” lays out a comprehensive plan to tackle these pressing issues.
A distinguished cardiologist and global health strategist, Janabi’s career is marked by both medical innovation and policy influence. He currently serves as the CEO of Tanzania’s Muhimbili National Hospital, a 4,000-bed facility that has become a hub for advanced medical care. Under his leadership, the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute—where he previously served as Executive Director—has become one of Africa’s leading centers for cardiac care, reducing the need for overseas referrals by 95 per cent.
Beyond clinical advancements, Janabi has played a critical role in shaping Tanzania’s national health policies. As a senior advisor on health policy and nutrition to Presidents Jakaya Kikwete and Samia Suluhu Hassan, he has been instrumental in expanding universal healthcare coverage, implementing HIV prevention programs, and spearheading the fight against malaria. His advocacy led to a nationwide campaign in 2012 where President Kikwete and the First Lady publicly underwent HIV testing, a move that inspired over five million Tanzanians to follow suit.
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His expertise has also been sought on the global stage. During the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak, Janabi was a member of the UN High-Level Panel that assessed the crisis and recommended structural reforms to WHO’s emergency response strategy. More recently, he has worked with the Gates Foundation, the Africa CDC, and international health bodies to enhance Tanzania’s pandemic preparedness.
If elected, Janabi’s agenda will focus on strengthening Africa’s health sovereignty. He argues that the continent cannot rely on external aid indefinitely and must invest in its own pharmaceutical industry, vaccine production, and healthcare financing. His vision also emphasizes climate resilience, urging African nations to integrate environmental factors into public health planning.
Janabi’s supporters describe him as a pragmatic, solutions-driven leader. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has endorsed his bid, calling him “a tireless champion for the people of Africa.” His proposal has also gained traction among African leaders seeking a candidate with deep regional knowledge and global influence.
