Tanzanian Health Expert Unveils Vision for WHO-AFRO Leadership

As Africa continues to grapple with pressing health challenges, Tanzanian health expert Prof. Mohamed Yakub Janabi has set out his vision for a transformative healthcare agenda as he vies for the position of WHO Regional Director for Africa (WHO-AFRO).

In his manifesto, Building a Healthier Africa, Together, Prof. Janabi outlines key priorities, including strengthening universal health coverage (UHC), enhancing pandemic preparedness, tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and advancing Africa’s health sovereignty.

Endorsed by Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, his candidacy comes at a pivotal moment as the continent faces rising health threats, from emerging infectious diseases to a growing burden of non-communicable diseases. With over two decades of experience spanning clinical research, health diplomacy, and hospital leadership, Prof. Janabi is positioning himself as a leader who can drive Africa-led solutions to its healthcare challenges.

Currently serving as the CEO of Muhimbili National Hospital, one of Africa’s largest hospitals, Prof. Janabi oversees a 4,000-bed institution linked to 8,000 primary and secondary health facilities. He also played a pivotal role in establishing the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, which has performed over 2,000 advanced cardiac procedures annually, reducing overseas medical referrals by 95 per cent.

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Prof. Janabi’s agenda for WHO-AFRO includes modernising its operations, fostering regional collaboration, and strengthening Africa’s emergency response mechanisms. His leadership in grassroots surveillance and cross-border coordination during the 2023 and 2025 Marburg virus outbreaks underscores his commitment to proactive, Africa-driven health interventions.

“Africa’s future depends on proactive health investments. We cannot afford to wait for crises before acting,” he states, emphasising the need for primary healthcare and prevention-based strategies over reactive measures.

As a leading cardiologist and researcher, Prof. Janabi has co-led groundbreaking studies on HIV vaccine trials (TaMoVac), TB/HIV co-infection research, and antimicrobial resistance. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and contributions to Your Health and Lifestyle (2024), he is a strong proponent of evidence-based policymaking.

He also emphasised the urgent need for climate-resilient health systems to combat climate-induced disease outbreaks. “The health risks from climate change must be integrated into policy planning, with stronger early warning systems,” he warns.

Prof. Janabi’s extensive experience across clinical medicine, policy advising, and global health diplomacy positions him as a candidate seeking to redefine WHO-AFRO’s role in Africa’s healthcare landscape.