IN 2024, Tanzania proudly stood tall on the global stage, its citizens playing pivotal roles that not only brought prestige to the nation but also underscored the country’s growing influence in international leadership, healthcare and economic development.
From securing top leadership roles in global organisations to earning prestigious awards from world-renowned institutions, Tanzanians showcased resilience, innovation and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
These milestones are not mere individual triumphs but a collective achievement that reflects Tanzania’s dedication to fostering leadership, advancing healthcare and contributing to global governance.
The late Dr Faustine Ndugulile, Dr Zarau Wendeline Kibwe, and Professor Karim Manji became among powerful symbols of Tanzania’s capability to compete and excel at the highest levels.
On August 27, 2024, the late Dr Ndugulile, former Deputy Minister for Health and Member of Parliament for Kigamboni, made history by being elected WHO Regional Director for Africa during the 74th Session of the WHO Afro Regional Committee in Brazzaville.
This was not just a personal victory but a monumental achievement for Tanzania.
In his campaign address, Dr Ndugulile laid out a bold vision to tackle critical healthcare challenges across Africa, including slow progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), financial constraints within healthcare systems, healthcare workforce shortages and the impact of emerging diseases and climate change.
His vision emphasised universal access to quality healthcare, strengthening epidemic preparedness, improving accountability and fostering cross-border collaboration among member states.
Securing 25 out of 46 votes in a highly competitive election against strong candidates from Niger and Senegal, Dr Ndugulile’s victory was celebrated across Tanzania and beyond.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated him, writing on her X platform, “My heartfelt congratulations to Dr Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile for being elected as the World Health Organisation Regional Director for Africa.
You have made our country proud and our continent will greatly benefit from your work.” However, tragedy struck just three months later.
On November 27, 2024, Dr Ndugulile passed away while undergoing treatment in India, just days before he was due to take his oath of office.
President Samia expressed deep sorrow, stating, “I have received with sadness the news of the passing of Dr Faustine Ndugulile… My sincere condolences to his family, the Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Tulia Ackson, Members of Parliament, the residents of Kigamboni, relatives, friends and all Tanzanians.
May the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest.” WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus joined in mourning the loss, describing Dr Ndugulile’s passing as a significant loss to Africa and the world.
In response to this profound loss, President Samia nominated Prof Mohammed Janabi, the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, as Tanzania’s candidate for the WHO Regional Director position, ensuring that the nation’s legacy in global healthcare leadership remains strong.
While the healthcare sector celebrated its global achievements, Tanzania also made history in economic leadership.
In 2024, Dr Zarau Wendeline Kibwe, an accomplished Tanzanian economist, was appointed Executive Director for the World Bank’s Africa Group 1, overseeing 22 African countries.
This appointment marked the first time in over five decades that a Tanzanian had been trusted with such a high-ranking position within the World Bank.
Dr Kibwe committed herself to strengthening partnerships between the World Bank and African countries, with a focus on sustainable development, economic resilience and reducing inequalities across the continent.
Finance Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba celebrated Dr Kibwe’s appointment as a testament to President Samia’s visionary leadership and Tanzania’s growing stature on the global stage.
In healthcare academia, Professor Karim Manji, a Pediatrics and Child Health Specialist from the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), earned global recognition when he received the Alumni Award of Merit from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Established in 1992, this prestigious award honours individuals who have made exceptional contributions to public health.
Prof Manji became the first East African recipient of this accolade, cementing Tanzania’s place in global health leadership.
Prof Manji was recognised for his decades-long commitment to child healthcare, focusing on capacity building, patientcentred care and groundbreaking research in child nutrition, infectious diseases and early childhood development.
His achievement serves as an inspiration for Tanzanian healthcare professionals and reaffirms the country’s dedication to excellence in public health research and practice.
The stories of Dr Faustine Ndugulile, Dr Zarau Wendeline Kibwe and Prof Karim Manji are not isolated successes—they represent a broader narrative of Tanzania’s strategic investment in education, healthcare and leadership development.
These achievements have not only elevated the profiles of these individuals but have also positioned Tanzania as a reliable partner in international governance and a leader in addressing global challenges.
President Samia has played a central role in driving this vision forward, fostering an environment where Tanzanians can excel on the world stage.
As the nation looks ahead to 2025, the legacy of these leaders will continue to inspire future generations.
Tanzania’s journey towards global recognition is far from over—it is a story of resilience, excellence and an unwavering commitment to making a difference locally and globally.
