Why Tanzania picked Ndugulile for WHO post

Dar es Salaam. The appointment of Dr Faustine Ndugulile to vie for the post of World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for Africa is based on his extensive expertise and his firm commitment to promote health equity and reduce disparities among underserved and marginalised communities, the minister of Health Ummy Mwalimu, has said.

Ms Mwalimu revealed that the government proposed Dr Ndugulile, the former deputy minister for Health, as the candidate because he embodies a commitment to excellence in global health leadership, which is useful in addressing the diverse health needs of the Africa region.

“He will bring valuable insights, experience, and leadership to this critical role, driving positive change and advancing health outcomes across the African continent,” she said on Wednesday May 8.

The minister said Tanzania has the opportunity to nominate a candidate due to its unwavering commitment to improving health care services and the significant investments made at different levels.

She pointed to several developmental initiatives, including the enhancement of healthcare services, the reduction of maternal and child mortality rates, and the successful implementation of community health services.

“By appointing a Tanzanian candidate to an international post, we can harness our collective expertise and resources to address pressing global challenges and build a more resilient and healthier world for all,” she said.

Dr Ndugulile served as deputy minister for Health, Community Development, Gender, and the Elderly between 2017 and 2020.

According to Dr Ndugulile, some of his priorities as a candidate include advocating universal health coverage (UHC), improving maternal and child health care, addressing the rising non-communicable diseases (NCD), and prioritising primary healthcare.

He also highlighted that resilient and sustainable health systems, health security supports, innovation, and research, as well as nurturing partnerships and collaborations, will advance Africa’s health agenda.

Dr Ndugulile holds a Doctorate of Medicine and Master of Science in Microbiology degrees from the University of Dares Salaam and a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Western Cape.

With a specialty in Public Health and Medical Microbiology, Dr Ndugulile joined politics in 2010. He has, since then, been a legislator for Kigamboni.

He also served as vice chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on Social Services and Community Development and chairman of the parliamentary committee on HIV/AIDS and Substance Abuse.

Dr Ndugulile has been a Member of the Pan African Parliament (2015–2017), a member of the American Society of Microbiologists (ASM), the Tanzania Public Health Association (TPHA), and the Secretary-General and later chairman of the Tanzanian Parliamentarians AIDS Coalition (TAPAC).

On his part, the minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr January Makamba, revealed that the government has garnered endorsements from all 16 members of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) for Dr Ndugulile's candidacy.

Makamba further disclosed that talks with leaders from non-Sadc countries have also resulted in support, with seven additional countries pledging their backing.

“This collective endorsement, along with the Sadc votes, positions Tanzania's candidate with half of all votes secured,” he said. Minister Makamba called upon other countries to rally behind Dr Ndugulile, emphasising his professionalism and capability to deliver results effectively.