Tanzania’s Prof Mohamed Janabi Appointed WHO Regional Director for Africa
Kenya may be poised to benefit from new regional opportunities following the nomination of Tanzania’s Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi as the next Regional Director for the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa (WHO/AFRO).
Janabi’s nomination was officially confirmed on Sunday, May 18, during a special session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Geneva, Switzerland. Backed by the Tanzanian government, Janabi will begin his five-year tenure from 2025 to 2030, with his formal appointment scheduled between May 28 and May 29.
The veteran cardiologist and health expert will now oversee WHO’s regional operations across 47 member states, including Kenya. His leadership arrives at a critical time, as Africa continues to rebuild its health systems following the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kenya, which boasts leading medical and research institutions such as the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and Amref Health Africa, has historically worked closely with WHO. Many are optimistic that Janabi’s tenure could usher in strengthened collaboration between the regional health body and Kenyan institutions.
While Kenya did not field a candidate for the influential role, it remains an active participant in the WHO Regional Committee and was well represented in the Geneva session where Janabi’s nomination was discussed. Kenyan health officials are expected to play a role in shaping future continental health strategies under Janabi’s stewardship.
Regional dynamics could also play in Kenya’s favour. With both countries part of the East African Community (EAC), Janabi’s elevation could help foster stronger cross-border collaboration in healthcare delivery, disease prevention, and emergency response.
Moreover, Kenya could advocate for increased technical and financial support from WHO by leveraging the East African connection and emphasizing shared health priorities.
Janabi replaces fellow Tanzanian Dr Faustine Ndugulile, who passed away on November 27 while undergoing treatment in India.
However, Janabi’s nomination comes amid strained perceptions of Tanzanian leadership in Kenya, particularly after recent diplomatic discomforts involving Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu and PLP leader Martha Karua. Despite this, analysts believe Kenya will prioritize regional health interests over political tensions.
With Janabi at the helm, WHO Africa is set to enter a new era of leadership — one that could potentially benefit Kenya’s public health efforts if existing partnerships are harnessed effectively.
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Tanzania’s Prof Mohamed Janabi Appointed WHO Regional Director for Africa