Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the World Health Organisation’s Africa Regional Director-elect, reportedly died on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Ndugulile, born in 1969, was a Tanzanian politician and well-known public health expert.
Ndugulile was nominated as the next Regional Director of the WHO African Region in August 2024, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who had previously served two five-year terms.
African member states decided to nominate Ndugulile at the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, which was held in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.
His candidacy was intended to be submitted for appointment during the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, which would be held in Geneva, Switzerland, in February 2025.
On his X handle, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed shock at his death.
Ghebreyesus posted, “Shocked and deeply saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect.
“My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, and the parliament and people of #Tanzania.”
Moeti posted, “I’m deeply saddened and shocked about the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect. It’s an immense loss.
“My entire team, @WHOAFRO, and I send our sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the government, and the people of Tanzania.”
Also, Dr. Mulombo Kazadi, WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, commented on his X, “We didn’t need this now. We are devastated. Sad news for Africa and the world. We give glory to Almighty God because only He knows why. We thank God for his life and the inspiration he brought, albeit for a very short time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
On her X Twitter, Tanzanian President Samia Hassan also expressed her condolences for Ndugulile’s death.
