Geneva: Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi was today nominated as the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva ahead of the World Health Assembly.
According to African Press Organization, the Special Session by Member States of the WHO African Region was organized after the sudden and untimely death of Regional Director-elect, Dr. Faustine Ndugulile in November 2024. The session was convened to elect the next Regional Director, with other candidates including Dr. Nda Konan Michel Yao from Cote d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed Lamine Dramé from Guinea, and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa from Togo.
WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, extended his congratulations to Professor Janabi on his nomination. He acknowledged the efforts of the other candidates and expressed gratitude towards the United Republic of Tanzania. Dr. Tedros highlighted the challenges and opportunities awaiting Professor Jana
bi as he prepares to assume leadership during a critical period for the African Region and WHO overall.
Dr. Tedros also expressed appreciation for Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his leadership during the transitional phase following the conclusion of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term. Dr. Ihekweazu congratulated Professor Janabi, expressing confidence in his ability to address the region’s health challenges and pledging his support.
Dr. Ihekweazu remarked, “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.”