GENEVA (BG) — Nigerian epidemiologist Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu has been appointed acting regional director for WHO Africa following the sudden death of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile in November 2024, the World Health Organization announced Tuesday.
Ihekweazu takes over after the conclusion of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s tenure, during which she led the region through major health crises, including Ebola and COVID-19.
“I am confident that the region is in very capable hands,” WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Since 2015, Moeti has worked to strengthen WHO Africa, focusing on accountability, effectiveness and results.
Before his appointment, Ihekweazu served as assistant Director-General for the Division of Health Emergency Intelligence and Surveillance Systems in the Emergencies Programme.
A seasoned epidemiologist from Nigeria, he previously led the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and held various international health positions.
As acting regional director, Ihekweazu will continue efforts to improve health systems across Africa, with a focus on universal health coverage, emergency response and health security.
His leadership will last until a new director is elected in May. “It is an honor and privilege to serve our continent,” Ihekweazu posted on X.
In her farewell message, Moeti thanked WHO staff, member states and partners for their support, highlighting progress in strengthening health systems and expanding healthcare access.
“Over the past decade, we have worked side-by-side to strengthen health systems and advance universal health coverage, to expand access to care,” she said.
Moeti acknowledged ongoing challenges but expressed confidence in the foundation laid for future initiatives.
