The news was confirmed by Tanzania’s Parliament Speaker, Tulia Ackson, who expressed sorrow in a Swahili statement.

"It is with great sadness that I have received the news of the death of Kigamboni Member of Parliament and Director-elect of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa Region, Dr Faustine Ndugulile," Ackson stated, extending condolences to Ndugulile’s family and all Tanzanians.

According to media reports, Ndugulile had been undergoing treatment in India. He died just days before taking up his position at WHO. Ndugulile was elected on August 27, 2024, during the 74th WHO Regional Committee for Africa session, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti.

Selected from a competitive field of candidates, including representatives from Niger, Rwanda, and Senegal, Ndugulile had previously served as Tanzania’s Health Minister under the late President John Magufuli.

He had pledged healthcare reforms and including tackling challenges such as the spread of mpox in Africa.

Dr. Ndugulile (in the middle) was supposed to replace Dr. Moeti (left) in February 2025.