Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is in mourning following the sudden death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a prominent public figure and the designated Regional Director for the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region.
The news, which was first announced by the Speaker of Tanzania’s National Assembly, Dr. Tulia Ackson, has sent shockwaves through the country and beyond.
Dr. Ndugulile, who was set to take office at WHO in February 2025, passed away on the night of November 27, 2024, while undergoing medical treatment in India.
His cause of death has not been disclosed.
Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of Tanzania, on Wednesday (November 27) expressed her deep sorrow in a statement, paying tribute to Dr. Ndugulile’s significant contributions to Tanzania and the global health community.
“It is with great sadness that I share the passing of Honorable Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a distinguished Member of Parliament and the future Regional Director of the WHO for Africa,” she said, extending condolences to his family, the people of Kigamboni, and Tanzanians at large.
The death of Dr. Ndugulile has left a void not only in Tanzania but also in the international health community.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom expressed his sadness, calling it a “deep loss” for the global health sector.
“We were looking forward to his leadership at WHO Africa, and it is with great sorrow that we share in the grief of his family and the people of Tanzania,” Dr Tedros remarked.
Kenya also joined the outpouring of condolences.
Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei conveyed the country’s sympathies, recalling Dr. Ndugulile’s recent appointment to lead WHO Africa, a role he had worked hard to achieve.
Dr. Ndugulile’s death comes just months after his election to the WHO role, a testament to his growing influence in public health.
Before this, he had a distinguished career in Tanzania, serving as a Member of Parliament for Kigamboni, as well as holding key positions such as the Health Minister and the Minister for Communication and Information Technology.
His medical background in Public Health and Medical Microbiology, along with his role as a member of the Governing Council of the International AIDS Society, cemented his legacy as one of Tanzania’s leading figures in health policy.
As Tanzania and the global health community grieve, his passing serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on both national and international stages.
