Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi has been nominated as the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region.
This was disclosed on Sunday during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva ahead of the World Health Assembly.
The Special Session by Member States of the WHO African Region to elect the next Regional Director was agreed upon and organized following the sudden and untimely death of Regional Director-elect, Dr Faustine Ndugulile in November 2024.
Other candidates were Dr N’da Konan Michel Yao (proposed by Cote d’Ivoire), Dr Mohammed Lamine Dramé (proposed by Guinea), and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa (proposed by Togo).
Professor Janabi’s nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, which takes place from 28 to 29 May 2025 in Geneva.
The newly appointed Regional Director will take office thereafter for a five-year term and be eligible for reappointment once.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Janabi expressed commitment to advancing health of the people of the region.
“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,” said Professor Janabi. “As we face challenges ranging from infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases to climate change and limited health financing, we must harness African resilience and unity.”
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, congratulated Dr Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa and praised the other candidates on their campaigns.
Dr Ihekweazu congratulated Professor Janabi, wishing him success as he takes up the new role.
