DIRECTOR of Preventive Services at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, has been elected director general of Health Association of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa (ECSA-HC).

Dr. Kapologwe defeated six other candidates from various countries in election held yesterday in Lilongwe, Malawi. He succeeds Prof. Yoswa Dambisya from Uganda, who has served in the position for two consecutive five-year terms.

According to the association’s guidelines, Dr. Kapologwe will serve a five-year term.

Speaking after the election, Health Minister Jenista Mhagama revealed that the position initially attracted 47 applicants. Following interviews conducted by a committee of general secretaries of member countries, Dr. Kapologwe secured the highest score, advancing to the final round alongside two candidates from Kenya and Malawi.

His name, along with the two finalists, was then presented at the ECSA-HC general assembly, where he emerged   the winner.

Mhagama described the victory as a testament to Tanzania’s capacity to produce highly qualified professionals capable of leading regional and international organisations and making significant contributions to improving health services.

"This is the second time Tanzania had held this position in the 51-year history of the association. The first was Dr. Winny Mpanju, who served as director general from 1983 to 2000," she said.

"This is a great achievement for Tanzania to regain this opportunity after 27 years."

Established in 1974, ECSA-HC comprises nine member countries: Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya, Lesotho, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Uganda, and Eswatini. The organisation also collaborates with 13 non-member countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cameroon, Eritrea, Gabon, Liberia, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia.

Tanzanian delegates celebrated Dr. Kapologwe’s victory, recognising his nomination and endorsement by the government.

"The association is responsible for enhancing regional cooperation to address health challenges among member states, improve healthcare services, and share expertise," Mhagama stated.