Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi has been nominated as the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region. The nomination was made during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva ahead of the World Health Assembly.
The session was convened by Member States of the WHO African Region to elect a new Regional Director following the sudden and untimely death of Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, in November 2024.
Other candidates for the position included Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao (proposed by Côte d’Ivoire), Dr. Mohammed Lamine Dramé (proposed by Guinea), and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa (proposed by Togo).
Professor Janabi’s nomination will now be submitted to the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for 28–29 May 2025 in Geneva, for formal appointment. Upon confirmation, he will serve a five-year term, renewable once.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Janabi expressed his gratitude and commitment to the health of the African people:
“Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down. Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa,” he said.
“As we face challenges ranging from infectious diseases and noncommunicable diseases to climate change and limited health financing, we must harness African resilience and unity.”
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Professor Janabi on his nomination and commended the other candidates for their campaigns.
“I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa, and also to the United Republic of Tanzania. I also thank Dr. Yao, Dr. Lamine, and Professor Mijiyawa for their campaigns for this challenging but extremely important position,” said Dr. Tedros.
He emphasized the significance of this leadership transition:
“Professor Janabi will take the reins at an unprecedented time for the African Region, and for WHO as a whole. We are grateful for his experience and expertise as we work together to navigate the challenges we face and position our Organization to be stronger, sharper, and more effective in the future. I look forward to his appointment by the Executive Board and to working with him for a healthier, safer, fairer Africa.”
Dr. Tedros also extended appreciation to Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his leadership during the transition following the end of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term.
Dr. Ihekweazu congratulated Professor Janabi and pledged continued support:
“Congratulations, Professor Janabi, on your election. This is a true reflection of the trust that Member States have placed in you. The African region has made important strides in health, but it also faces real and complex challenges. You can count on my support and that of all of WHO Africa as you take on this new role to serve our people.”
