Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa Regional Director-elect and a distinguished Tanzanian public health expert, has died at the age of 55.
He died on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Born in 1969, Dr. Ndugulile was celebrated for his contributions to public health and his service as a Tanzanian politician. His death comes just months after his nomination to lead WHO’s Africa Region, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who had served two terms as Regional Director.
African member states voted to nominate Ndugulile during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.
His nomination was scheduled to be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, which takes place in February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
The WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, on his X handle expressed shock at the passing of Ndugulile.
Ghebreyesus posted, “Shocked and deeply saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Dr Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect.
“My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, and the parliament and people of #Tanzania.”
Moeti posted, “I’m deeply saddened and shocked about the sudden passing of Dr Faustine Ndugulile, @WHOAFRO Regional Director-elect.
“It’s an immense loss. My entire team @WHOAFRO and I send our sincere & heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the government and the people of Tanzania.”
Also, the WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Mulombo Kazadi on his X posted, “We didn’t need this now. We are devastated. Sad news for Africa and the world. We give glory to Almighty God because only Him knows why. We thank God for his life and the inspiration he brought albeit for a very short time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
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