DR Faustine Ndugulile, The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) regional director-elect for Africa, has died at the age of 55 while receiving medical treatment in India, Tanzania’s Parliament Speaker Tulia Ackson announced on Wednesday.
Plans to repatriate his body are underway, with funeral arrangements expected to be shared soon. However, Ackson did not disclose the nature of Ndugulile’s illness.
Ndugulile, a prominent figure in Tanzania’s political and health sectors, was a former member of parliament for Kigamboni Constituency in Dar es Salaam and served as the country’s deputy health minister from 2017 to 2020. He later became the minister for information and communication technology until 2021.
In August, he was elected to lead the WHO Africa region, a position he was set to assume in February 2025, succeeding Dr Matshidiso Moeti. In his acceptance speech, Ndugulile pledged to prioritise the health and well-being of African citizens, stating his vision for a healthier, more resilient continent.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her sorrow over the loss on the platform X, formerly Twitter, calling his death ‘devastating.’ WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also shared his condolences, describing himself as ‘shocked and deeply saddened’ by the news.
Tributes to Ndugulile poured in from Tanzanian lawmakers and citizens alike. Many remembered him as a dedicated public servant. Former opposition MP Godbless Lema highlighted his unique character within the ruling party, stating: ‘When in parliament, Ndugulile wasn’t as harsh as his colleagues.’ Others lauded his humility and unwavering commitment to public health.
Ndugulile’s election as WHO Africa director came at a crucial time for the continent, which faces significant challenges, including strengthening health systems, combating infectious diseases, and addressing health inequities. WHO regional directors serve a five-year term, renewable once, and Ndugulile was set to guide Africa’s health agenda over the next decade.
The loss of Ndugulile has left a void in both the Tanzanian and global health communities, with many mourning the untimely passing of a leader who sought to shape a healthier future for the continent.
