Tanzania has officially arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, to take part in the 78th World Health Assembly organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), scheduled to run from May 19 to 27, 2025.
The country’s delegation is jointly led by the Minister for Health of Mainland Tanzania, Jenista Mhagama, and the Minister for Health of Zanzibar, Nassor Mazrui. They were warmly received on May 16 by Tanzania’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Offices in Geneva, Ambassador Abdallah Possi.
“This assembly is a critical platform for us to share Tanzania’s experiences, engage with global health partners, and strengthen international cooperation,” said Jenista Mhagama shortly after arriving in Geneva.
Prior to the main assembly, a special session of the WHO African Region is scheduled for May 18, 2025.
A key highlight of this session will be the election of the new WHO Regional Director for Africa. Tanzania has nominated Professor Mohammed Janabi, a seasoned health expert, for the role.
“Our candidate, Prof. Janabi, brings unmatched experience, integrity, and a strong vision for transforming healthcare systems across Africa. We believe he is the right leader for the continent at this time,” said Nassor Mazrui.
The Tanzanian delegation held a strategic preparatory meeting soon after arrival to coordinate efforts ahead of the election.
The meeting was chaired virtually by Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chairperson of the Tanzania Election Campaign Committee,Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete.
“We are united in purpose. This is a national mission that reflects our commitment to health equity in Africa,” said Dr. Kikwete.
“Prof. Janabi’s candidacy is not only a source of pride for Tanzania but a sign of our readiness to contribute to global health leadership.”he added
Other senior officials who took part in the meeting included Angellah Kairuki, Member of Parliament Neema Lugangira, Ambassador Hoyce Temu (Deputy Head of Mission – Geneva), Ambassador Noel Kaganda, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe (Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health), and Dr. Grace Magembe (Chief Medical Officer), alongside a team of technical experts from relevant ministries.
“This is a crucial moment for Tanzania to take on a larger role in shaping health policy across the continent,” said Dr. Seif Shekalaghe. “Our preparations have been thorough, and we are optimistic.”
Tanzania’s participation in the assembly reaffirms its strong commitment to multilateral health initiatives and highlights its leadership aspirations in regional and global health governance.