The global health community is reeling in shock following the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the incoming regional director of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Africa. The 55-year-old Tanzanian lawmaker and medical doctor died on Wednesday morning in India while undergoing treatment.
Ndugulile’s death comes just three months after he was elected to the prestigious position, which he was set to assume in February next year. He would have succeeded Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who has served two five-year terms as the WHO regional director for Africa.
Ndugulile was a renowned figure in Tanzania, known for his bravery in standing up to President John Magufuli during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. As deputy health minister at the time, he advocated for evidence-based measures to combat the virus, despite Magufuli’s skepticism.
Throughout his distinguished career, Ndugulile held various key positions, including deputy minister for health and communications minister. He also played a crucial role in establishing the National Blood Transfusion Services in Tanzania and worked with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in South Africa.
The WHO director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed his shock and sadness at Ndugulile’s passing, while Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu sent her condolences to the family of the deceased lawmaker. The outgoing Africa director, Dr. Moeti, described Ndugulile’s death as an “immense loss”
BBC/Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
