Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the recently elected Regional Director for the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa, has tragically passed away at the age of 55. His death occurred on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, shocking both the international health community and his home country of Tanzania.

Ndugulile, a prominent Tanzanian politician and public health expert, was nominated for the WHO Africa Regional Director position in August 2024, set to succeed Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who had served two terms. His nomination had been voted on by African member states during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. Ndugulile’s appointment was scheduled to be confirmed at the WHO Executive Board’s 156th session in February 2025.

The sudden death of Dr. Ndugulile has left many in shock. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed his deep sadness on social media, offering condolences to Ndugulile’s family, friends, and the Tanzanian people.

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“I’m 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,” Ghebreyesus wrote.

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, the outgoing WHO Africa Regional Director, also shared her sorrow, describing Ndugulile’s death as an immense loss to the region. “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,” Moeti said.

The WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Mulombo Kazadi, added his voice to the grief, stating, “Sad news for Africa and the world. We give glory to Almighty God because only He knows why. We thank God for his life and the inspiration he brought albeit for a very short time.”