Faustine Ndugulile has been nominated as the next Regional Director for the World Health Organisation (WHO) African Region, taking over from Matshidiso Moeti, who has served two five-year terms.

On Tuesday, 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.

Other candidates included Boureima Sambo (proposed by Niger,) Ibrahima Fall (proposed by Senegal) and Richard Mihigo (proposed by Rwanda), a statement by WHO said on Wednesday.

The Regional Committee is WHO’s regional decision-making body, meeting once a year to discuss and endorse policies, activities and financial plans to improve the health of the people of Africa.

Mr Ndugulile’s nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO executive board, which takes place in February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The newly appointed regional director will take office thereafter for a five-year term and will be eligible for reappointment once.

In his acceptance remarks, Mr Ndugulile expressed commitment to advancing the health of people in Africa.

“I’m truly honoured and humbled to be elected to the position of WHO Regional Director for Africa. I thank member states for the trust shown in me. I promise to work with you, and I believe that together we can build a healthier Africa,” said Mr Ndugulile.

WHO director-general Tedros  Ghebreyesus congratulated Mr Ndugulile on his election as regional director for Africa and praised Messrs Sambo, Fall and Mihigo on their campaigns.

“Dr Ndugulile has earned the confidence and trust of the member states of the region to be elected the next regional director for WHO Africa. This is a great privilege and a very great responsibility. I and the entire WHO family in Africa and around the world will support you every step of the way,” Mr Ghebreyesus said.

Mr Ghebreyesus also thanked Ms Moeti, the outgoing WHO regional director, for 10 years of commitment and excellence in service of the countries and people of Africa.

(NAN)