Tanzanian cardiologist and health expert, Professor Mohamed Janabi, has officially taken office as the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, effective Monday, June 30, 2025.
Janabi brings over 30 years of experience in clinical medicine, public health, health policy, and systems development across Africa and internationally. His election was confirmed in May 2025 during a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva. He succeeds Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, who served in an acting capacity and was recently appointed Executive Director of WHO’s Health Emergencies Programme.
Taking to his official X handle, Janabi expressed his commitment to transforming healthcare across the continent.
“Today, I officially assumed office as @WHOAFRO Regional Director. It is a profound honour and responsibility to lead this critical work at a time when the health of our continent is more important than ever,” he wrote.
Janabi outlined his top priorities: building resilient health systems, promoting equitable access to care, and enhancing collaboration among African nations. He emphasized advancing universal health coverage, reducing maternal and child mortality, combating both communicable and noncommunicable diseases, and promoting climate-resilient health systems and emergency preparedness.
He also pledged to support domestic health financing, strengthen local research and innovation, and foster global partnerships to address shared health challenges.
Before his WHO appointment, Janabi served as Senior Health Advisor to the President of Tanzania and as Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital, the country’s leading referral hospital. He also founded and led the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, establishing it as a regional hub for cardiovascular care.
Janabi’s vision is for a healthier and more prosperous Africa where every citizen has access to quality and sustainable healthcare.
