Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, who was elected as the regional director for WHO Africa only three months ago, has died at the age of 55 while undergoing treatment in India. His passing marks a significant loss for global health leadership.
Tanzania’s Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, Elected WHO Africa Director, Passes Away at 55
Tanzania’s Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, Elected WHO Africa Director, Passes Away at 55
The incoming director for WHO Africa has died unexpectedly just months after his election, leaving a void in the health sector.
The World Health Organization (WHO) faced a somber moment as it confirmed the passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the newly elected director for the African Region. Ndugulile, a Tanzanian lawmaker and medical doctor, died at the age of 55 on Wednesday morning while seeking treatment in India.
His election to the WHO position took place in August 2023, with plans for him to succeed Botswana’s Dr. Matshidiso Moeti in February 2024. Ndugulile was known for his courageous stance during the Covid-19 pandemic, notably opposing President John Magufuli's unorthodox methods of handling the crisis.
Following his election, WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his sorrow at the news, calling the loss "shocking and deeply saddening." Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu also paid tribute, extending condolences to Ndugulile’s family.
Details surrounding the medical treatment he was undergoing remain undisclosed. Before rising to prominence in international health, Ndugulile had a notable career in Tanzania’s political landscape, representing the Kigamboni constituency in Dar es Salaam, and holding high-profile roles such as deputy health minister.
His political journey took a turn in May 2020, when he was removed from his ministerial position during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic. His dismissal was reportedly linked to his advocacy for more scientifically grounded health measures, which clashed with the president's stance denying the severity of the virus.
Despite political upheaval, Ndugulile was appointed minister of Communication and Information Technology following Magufuli's reelection in December 2020 and served until the president’s death in 2021. His background in health included significant roles, such as being a founding program manager for the National Blood Transfusion Services and working with the CDC in South Africa.
His recent candidacy for the WHO role stemmed from a notable commitment to enhance health across Africa. Upon his election, he pledged to work collaboratively toward building a healthier continent.
The death of Ndugulile is unprecedented as no WHO director-elect has ever passed away before assuming office. The election process for his successor will involve a lengthy and complex political process, with the international health community mourning this immense loss.
