GENEVA, November 28th - Dr. Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile, Regional Director(RD)-elect of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region has passed away at the age of 55. The Stop TB Partnership and the global TB community is shocked and deeply saddened by the news.
A visionary Tanzanian MP and dedicated public health advocate, especially for tuberculosis, Dr. Ndugulile devoted his life to improving health systems and fostering equitable access to healthcare across the Africa. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to health equity leave an indelible mark on the world.
In August, Dr. Faustine was nominated as the next RD for the WHO African Region and his nomination was to be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, which takes place in February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
As one of the strong voices in health diplomacy, his vision for Universal Health Coverage and his strategy on effective political engagement, the use of technology and innovation, resource mobilization, and domestic resourcing would have supported fruitful dialogues on improving TB policies in African countries.
During his visit to Geneva, Stop TB Partnership called on Dr. Faustine and discussed his vision for WHO AFRO and ending TB by strengthening the relationship between the two organizations with concrete plans and deliverables.
At just 55, Dr. Faustine boasted a distinguished career. He was a renowned Tanzanian public health leader, medical doctor, and policymaker with a distinguished career spanning health service delivery, policy advocacy, and global health diplomacy.
As a Member of Parliament and former Deputy Minister for Health in Tanzania, he championed policies aimed at strengthening health systems and addressing critical health challenges such as infectious diseases like TB and HIV, and maternal health. His collaborative approach earned him respect both nationally and internationally, making him a trusted voice in global health forums.
A graduate of the University of Dar es Salaam and the University of Western Cape, he held advanced degrees in medicine, public health, and law, exemplifying a multidisciplinary approach to health challenges.
His work was instrumental in improving Tanzania's healthcare infrastructure, including expanding health facilities, strengthening public health laboratories, and advocating for universal health coverage. Dr. Faustine was also one of the founding members of the Global TB Caucus which brings together more than 2,500 parliamentarians working with 60 National TB Caucus and 89 Civil Society Focal Points across 150 countries.
He made several contributions towards improving global health through roles such as Resident Advisor for the CDC, member of the Pan-African Parliament, and champion for TB and HIV/AIDS programs.
His priorities were health equity, system resilience, and research innovation. Dr. Ndugulile's legacy reflects a life dedicated to advancing public health in Africa and beyond, leaving a profound impact on health systems and policies globally.
Dr. Ndugulile will be remembered for his immense contributions to humanity, humility, and dedication to uplifting communities. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his profound contributions.
