Faustine Ndugulile, WHO Africa director-elect, dies at 55

Faustine Ndugulile, director-elect of the World Health Organisation (WHO) for Africa, is dead.

Ndugulile, a 55-year-old lawmaker and medical doctor, reportedly died on Wednesday morning in India while undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness.

Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, expressed shock over the passing of the organisation’s top official and condoled with Ndugulile’s family.

“Shocked and deeply saddened to learn about the sudden passing of Faustine Ndugulile, WHO Africa Regional Director-elect,” he wrote on X.

“My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, and the parliament and people of Tanzania.”

Matshidiso Moeti, the current WHO regional director for Africa, also sent her condolences.

“I’m deeply saddened and shocked about the sudden passing of Faustine Ndugulile, WHO Africa regional director-elect. It’s an immense loss,” she said.

“My entire team and I send our sincere & heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, the government and the people of Tanzania.”

Walter Mulombo, WHO Nigeria country representative, also expressed sadness over Ndugulile’s passing via his X handle.

“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,” he said.

Samia Suluhu Hassan, president of the United Republic of Tanzania, described Ndugulile’s passing as a tragedy for the country and the region.

In August, Ndugulile was elected WHO regional head to succeed Moeti, who served two five-year terms.

He was due to assume the role in February 2025.