Geneva — Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi was this present day nominated as the next Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Location for the duration of a Special Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa held in Geneva forward of the World Health Assembly.
The Special Session by Member States of the WHO African Location to elect the next Regional Director was agreed upon and organized following the unexpected and untimely dying of Regional Director-elect, Dr Faustine Ndugulile in November 2024.
Diversified candidates personal been Dr N’da Konan Michel Yao (proposed by Cote d’Ivoire), Dr Mohammed Lamine Dramé (proposed by Guinea), and Professor Moustafa Mijiyawa (proposed by Togo).
Professor Janabi’s nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 157th session of the WHO Govt Board, which takes space from 28 to 29 Might maybe maybe neutral 2025 in Geneva. The newly appointed Regional Director will take office thereafter for a five-one year time length and be eligible for reappointment once.
In his acceptance remarks, Professor Janabi expressed commitment to advancing health of the folk of the gap.
“Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down. Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier stronger and more united Africa,” mentioned Professor Janabi. “As we face challenges ranging from infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases to climate change and limited health financing, we must harness African resilience and unity.”
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-Identical outdated, congratulated Dr Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa and praised the choice candidates on their campaigns.
“I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa, and also to the United Republic of Tanzania. I also thank Dr Yao, Dr Lamine and Professor Mijiyawa on their campaigns for this challenging but extremely important position,” mentioned WHO Director-Identical outdated Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
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“Professor Janabi will take the reins at an unprecedented time for the African Region, and WHO as a whole. We are grateful for his experience and expertise as we work together to navigate the challenges we face, and position our Organization to be stronger, sharper and more effective in the future. I look forward to his appointment by the Executive Board, and to working with him for a healthier, safer, fairer Africa,” mentioned Dr Tedros.
Dr Tedros also thanked Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his provider in steering the Regional Office for the duration of the transition length following the tip of the time length of aged Regional Director Dr Matshidiso Moeti.
Dr Ihekweazu congratulated Professor Janabi, wishing him success as he takes up the contemporary role.
“Congratulations Professor Janabi on his election. This is a true reflection of the trust that Member States have placed in you. The African region has made important strides in health. But it also faces real and complex challenges. You can count on my support and that of all of WHO Africa as you take on this new role to serve our people,” mentioned Dr Ihekweazu.