FELLOW NURSES AFRICA NEWS || 30, MAY 2025.
Fellow Nurses Africa News Report: Tanzanian Cardiologist to Lead WHO African Region
In a landmark decision for global health, the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board, during its 157th session in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 28, 2025, officially appointed Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi of Tanzania as the new WHO Regional Director for Africa. This historic appointment, following his nomination on May 18, 2025, marks a significant moment for nursing professionals, healthcare workers, and public health advocates across the continent.
Professor Janabi, a renowned cardiologist and health policy expert with over three decades of experience, emerged as the top candidate in a competitive nomination process during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa. His selection over Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao (Côte d’Ivoire), Dr. Mohamed Lamine Dramé (Guinea), and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa (Togo) reflects the confidence of the 47 Member States in his vision for transformative healthcare leadership. Janabi secured 32 votes in a secret ballot, underscoring his widespread support.
Set to assume his role on June 30, 2025, Professor Janabi will serve a five-year term, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who led the WHO African Region since 2015. His appointment follows the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the previous Regional Director-elect, in November 2024. Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, who served as Acting Regional Director, praised Janabi’s expertise, noting his ability to address pressing health challenges.
For nurses and healthcare professionals across Africa, Janabi’s leadership brings renewed hope. As the former Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital and Chief Advisor on Health Matters to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Janabi has a proven track record in strengthening health systems, advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and tackling infectious and noncommunicable diseases. His priorities include building resilient healthcare systems, improving access to quality care, and addressing climate-related health risks—issues that directly impact nursing practice and patient outcomes.
“Nurses are the backbone of healthcare delivery,” Janabi emphasized in his acceptance speech. “Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa.” His commitment to health equity resonates deeply with the nursing community, which plays a critical role in achieving UHC and responding to disease outbreaks like Ebola, mpox, and cholera.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus hailed the appointment, stating, “Professor Janabi’s leadership will drive progress in addressing Africa’s unique health challenges, from infectious diseases to health financing.” This vision aligns with the goals of Fellow Nurses Africa, empowering nurses to advocate for better working conditions, professional development, and patient-centered care.
As Janabi prepares to lead the WHO African Region, nurses across the continent are encouraged to engage with his agenda, which promises to prioritize healthcare workforce development and equitable access to resources. His appointment is a call to action for nursing professionals to collaborate in building a healthier future for Africa.
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