The Ifakara Health Institute extends its heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, who has been elected as the new WHO Regional Director for Africa.

His election was confirmed during a special session of the WHO African Regional Committee held on Sunday, following the untimely passing of Tanzania’s Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, who had previously been elected to the role.

Ifakara remains a committed partner to the WHO and looks forward to advancing public health in Africa under Prof. Janabi’s leadership.

About Prof. Mohamed Janabi

Born in 1962, his professional journey spans critical eras in African health, including the early HIV epidemic and current efforts to strengthen national health systems.

A respected cardiologist and seasoned health advisor, Prof. Janabi brings over three decades of experience in both clinical practice and health policy. He has served as a senior health advisor to both the late President of Tanzania and the current Head of State, Samia Suluhu Hassan. Prior to this role, he was the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, the country’s largest referral hospital.

In 2014, Prof. Janabi founded the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, a milestone in Tanzania’s healthcare system. During his presentation to the WHO Regional Committee, he noted that the institute achieved a 95% reduction in overseas referrals for heart disease within five years of its establishment.