The World Health Organization (WHO) has nominated Prof. Mohamed Janabi as the next Regional Director for the WHO African Region during a special session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva ahead of the World Health Assembly. The session was convened following the sudden death of Regional Director-elect Dr. Faustine Ndugulile in November 2024. Janabi’s nomination will be submitted for appointment at the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board on May 28–29, 2025. If appointed, he will serve a five-year term, with the possibility of one reappointment.

Janabi, proposed by Tanzania, prevailed over other candidates: Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao (Côte d’Ivoire), Dr. Mohammed Dramé (Guinea), and Prof. Moustafa Mijiyawa (Togo). In his acceptance speech, Janabi pledged to address regional health challenges, including infectious and noncommunicable diseases, climate change, and limited health financing, emphasizing African resilience and unity.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Janabi and commended the other candidates for their strong campaigns. He highlighted Janabi’s critical role at a pivotal time for the African Region and expressed confidence in his leadership to strengthen WHO’s effectiveness. Ghebreyesus also thanked Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting Regional Director, for his leadership during the transition following Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term.

Ihekweazu congratulated Janabi, acknowledging the region’s progress and ongoing challenges. He assured Janabi of the full support of the WHO Africa team. Janabi’s leadership is expected to navigate complex health issues and advance WHO’s mission for a healthier, safer, and fairer Africa.