Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the WHO regional director-elect for Africa, died in India while undergoing treatment. The Tanzanian Speaker of Parliament announced plans for body repatriation. A former parliament member and health minister, he was elected in August and was to assume office in February 2025. His passing elicited condolences from President Samia Suluhu Hassan and WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus, highlighting his humble service.
The tragic passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the World Health Organisation’s regional director-elect for Africa, occurred while he was receiving medical treatment in India. This was announced by Tanzania’s parliament speaker, Tulia Ackson, who also noted that arrangements are being made to repatriate his body, although details regarding his health condition remain undisclosed. Dr. Ndugulile was a member of parliament for the Kigamboni Constituency and held various key governmental roles, including Assistant Minister of Health from 2017 to 2020 and Minister for Information and Communication until 2021.
Elected in August as WHO’s regional director for Africa, Dr. Ndugulile was poised to assume office in February 2025, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti. In his acceptance speech, he underscored his dedication to enhancing health across the African continent. The news of his death elicited profound sorrow from various quarters, including Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who described it as devastating on the social media platform X. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus conveyed his shock and deep sadness at the loss, mirroring sentiments expressed by other Tanzanian lawmakers who remembered Dr. Ndugulile as a humble individual.
Dr. Faustine Ndugulile had an illustrious career in public service prior to his appointment as WHO’s regional director-elect for Africa. His tenure as a member of parliament and his roles in the Tanzanian government reflect his commitment to health and communication issues within the region. The WHO regional directorate is a crucial position that influences health policies across the continent. His election in August 2023 was anticipated to be instrumental in addressing the healthcare challenges facing Africa as he was scheduled to take up his role in early 2025, following two terms by his predecessor. Dr. Ndugulile’s unexpected death just months before he was to begin this new role raises concerns regarding continuity in leadership amidst ongoing global health issues.
The unexpected death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile marks a significant loss not only for Tanzania but also for the broader African health community. As a competent leader who was poised to further the mission of the WHO in Africa, his passing sheds light on the fragility of life and the ongoing challenges within global health leadership. His legacy as a public servant dedicated to health improvement and humility will be commemorated by many, and his contributions will be missed in the efforts to advance healthcare across the continent.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
