WHO Africa Director-Elect Faustine Ndugulile Dies in India

Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the newly elected World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, passed away in India while undergoing medical treatment on Wednesday, November 27th. Ndugulile, 55, was a Tanzanian medical doctor and parliamentarian known for his dedication to public health and his reformist stance during his tenure as deputy health minister. His death, announced by Tanzania’s Speaker of Parliament Tulia Ackson, has shocked the global health community.

Ndugulile was elected to the WHO role in August 2024 and was set to assume office in February 2025, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who completed two terms. During his acceptance speech, he pledged to improve healthcare systems across Africa, emphasizing collaboration and innovation. His sudden death has left the organization and his home country of Tanzania mourning a leader described by colleagues as “humble” and “dedicated.”

A seasoned professional, Ndugulile had an extensive career in health and politics. He represented the Kigamboni Constituency in Tanzania’s parliament and held key governmental roles, including deputy health minister from 2017 to 2020 and minister of communication until 2021. Notably, he advocated for scientific approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic, often clashing with Tanzania’s late President John Magufuli over health policies, such as promoting mask use against official narratives.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed his grief, calling Ndugulile’s death a significant loss to global health efforts. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and numerous legislators also conveyed their condolences, lauding his contributions to public health and governance. Funeral arrangements and plans to repatriate his body are currently underway.

Ndugulile’s achievements include his role in establishing Tanzania’s National Blood Transfusion Services and his leadership at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in South Africa. Despite his untimely passing, his legacy as a transformative figure in public health endures.

This marks the first time a WHO Regional Director-elect has passed away before assuming office. The process of electing a new director is expected to be lengthy and complex. Ndugulile’s death underscores the challenges and unpredictability of global health leadership.