Dr. Ndugulile was nominated for the coveted role during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, on Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
The vote was taken by all the African member states. Other candidates included Dr. Richard Mihigo, proposed by Rwanda; Niger's Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo; and Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall of Senegal.
Dr. Ndugulile's nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The newly appointed Regional Director will replace Dr. Matshidiso Moeti. He will serve a five-year term and be eligible for reappointment once.
Ahead of his formal appointment, Dr. Ndugulile expressed commitment to advancing the health of the people in the region.
'I'm truly honoured and humbled to be elected to the position of WHO Regional Director for Africa. I thank Member States for the trust shown in me. I promise to work with you, and I believe that together we can build a healthier Africa,' Dr. Ndugulile said.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, congratulated Dr. Ndugulile on his election as Regional Director for Africa and praised Dr. Sambo, Dr. Fall, and Dr. Mihigo for their campaigns.
'Dr. Ndugulile has earned the confidence and trust of the Member States of the region to be elected the next Regional Director for WHO Africa. This is a great privilege and a very great responsibility,' said Dr. Tedros. 'I and the entire WHO family in Africa and around the world will support you every step of the way.'
Meanwhile, Dr. Mihigo congratulated his Tanzanian counterpart on the victory and wished him success in his role.
'Warm congratulations to @DocFaustine on being elected as the new @WHOAFRO Regional Director. Wishing you great success in your new role. Hongera sana!' Dr. Mihigo said in a post on X.
He added, 'I wish to thank also all partners and supporters of my campaignâ€"your trust and commitment were greatly appreciated.'
Warm congratulations to @DocFaustine on being elected as the new @WHOAFRO Regional Director. Wishing you great success in your new role. Hongera sana!
I wish to thank also all partners and supporters of my campaign - your trust and commitment were greatly appreciated. pic.twitter.com/vEekp2sPHP
â€" Dr Richard Mihigo (@RichardMihigo) August 28, 2024
Wycliffe Nyamasege
