By Veronica Mrema
He is widely recognized as a leading expert and icon in cardiovascular diseases, also a distinguished researcher, visionary leader and respected public figure in Tanzania and internationally.
Professor Mohamed Yakub Janabi, he is famous in Tanzania for his remarkable contributions as the Executive Director of the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute [JKCI], where he left an indelible mark.
Currently, he serves as the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) and as the Health Advisor to the President of Tanzania.
Prof. Janabi is now the proposed candidate to run for the position of Regional Director for the World Health Organization's Africa Region (WHO-AFRO).
This prestigious opportunity follows the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile on November 27, 2024, in India, where he was receiving treatment.
Dr. Ndugulile, marks as the first Tanzanian and East African to win this role, had set a high standard for Tanzania's representation in global health leadership.
His contributions, including serving as Deputy Minister of Health and as a three-term Member of Parliament for Kigamboni, remain an inspiration. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
During Dr. Ndugulile's funeral, President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to vie for the WHO-AFRO leadership position.
She formally announced Prof. Janabi as the nation’s candidate, highlighting his extensive qualifications and outstanding track record.
EXCELLENCE LEADERSHIP
Prof. Janabi's career exemplifies dedication and excellence.
From his early days as Acting Director to becoming the full-fledged ED of JKCI, he transformed the institute into a beacon of hope for cardiovascular health in Africa.
Under his leadership, JKCI grew from referring 95% of its heart patients abroad for treatment to treating the majority locally, saving significant costs for the government.
Prof. Janabi spearheaded investments in modern medical equipment, built strong multidisciplinary teams, and introduced specialized training programs for Tanzanian medical professionals.
His vision was bold he aimed for JKCI to become the 'Apollo ya Afrika' a dream that has largely been realized.
By 2022, JKCI was not only treating Tanzanians but also receiving patients and training medical personnel from countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Comoros, and Zambia.
INFULUENTIAL
He is a highly influential leader within his community of professionals, policymakers, and society both in Tanzania and abroad.
You could describe him as a 'pathfinder' whose influential leadership style accelerates the effectiveness of any position he assumes.
Prof. Janabi is not the kind of leader who sits behind a desk all day; he is a hands-on, action-oriented leader.
You will often find him supervising the daily implementation of his responsibilities on the ground.
Let’s go back to 2013/14 when he was entrusted with the leadership of the Cardiology Unit at the Muhimbili National Hospital [MNH].
Building upon the foundation laid by his predecessor, Dr. Robert Mvungi, Prof. Janabi brought increased momentum and creativity to the role.
From the time he served as Acting Executive Director to becoming the full Executive Director upon the official establishment of the JKCI on September 5, 2015, up until his transfer to Muhimbili in 2022, his contributions to JKCI remain indelible.
When Prof. Janabi took over, the Ministry of Health reported that between 200 and 350 patients were being referred abroad annually for treatment.
Particularly for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like kidney ailments, cancer, and especially heart conditions.
This accounted for 95% of all patients sent abroad for treatment annually, with each patient costing the Tanzanian government about TZS 30 million.
It was not uncommon to find Prof. Janabi leading his staff by example, actively participating in various tasks to ensure quality service delivery.
His strategic investments in advanced medical equipment for institutions like JKCI, MNH, MOI, and Ocean Road elevated Tanzania’s healthcare system significantly.
A VISIONARY LEADER
Prof. Janabi is known for his grand vision. Once, he expressed his desire for JKCI to become the "Apollo of Africa."
In a December 14, 2017 blog post, I wrote an article titled 'JKCI na ndoto ya kufikia viwango vya Apollo'.
That means [JKCI and the Dream of Achieving Apollo Standards] highlighting his aspirations.
By April 7, 2022, the dream had become a reality, as evidenced by my subsequent article titled 'Apollo ya Afrika': Si ndoto tena Tanzania viwango kimataifa tiba ya moyo'
That means [Africa’s Apollo: International Standards in Cardiac Care Achieved in Tanzania].
These articles detailed the advancements made, including the influx of patients from countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Comoros, and Zambia.
Not only do these nations now refer patients to JKCI for treatment, but they also send their specialists for training.
"We are only a few steps away from conducting heart transplants; one day, we will get there," he once told me. JKCI now operates at an advanced level, utilizing cutting-edge technology and a strong foundation of collaboration he established.
FRUITFULLY
Ambassadors, specialists, and experts from various countries frequently visited JKCI to conduct specialized medical camps.
Prof. Janabi was a hands-on leader, often seen participating in these camps and interacting with patients' families to ensure satisfaction with the services provided.
Additionally, he focused on educating the public on preventing NCDs. Under his leadership, we established institutional magazine and YouTube channel.
The aim was to increase awareness and strengthen collaboration with media outlets.
Over time, public awareness of cardiac health grew significantly, a milestone the team celebrated under his guidance.
His philosophy of unity and accountability created a cohesive team at JKCI, improving service delivery within a short period.
LIFE FIRST
Prof. Janabi is a compelling advocate for public health, known for his ability to articulate and defend ideas that yield broad impact.
Significant investments in advanced medical equipment at JKCI, largely funded by the Tanzanian government, began to show results within a few years.
Previously, cardiac patients were among the largest groups sent abroad for treatment.
However, under his leadership, the number of such referrals significantly decreased, with 95% of patients now treated within Tanzania.
"Our greatest joy is in seeing how many lives we save while also conserving government funds that would have been spent on treatment abroad," he frequently states during press briefings..
A HAVEN FOR AFRICA
JKCI’s exemplary performance attracted partnerships with other African nations, which now send their patients to Tanzania for treatment.
Reaching this milestone was no easy task; it required unwavering leadership and a foundation of unity, both of which Prof. Janabi delivered with over 100% success.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a challenging time for all countries, Prof. Janabi took a proactive role in educating the public about the disease and vaccination options.
Faith begets faith, and in 2022, he was appointed Executive Director of MNH, leaving JKCI in the capable hands of his mentee, Dr. Peter Kisenge.
At Muhimbili, he remains the same tireless leader. He has rejuvenated MNH, giving it the appearance of a true national hospital while strengthening employee relations.
To enhance service delivery, he introduced customer care training for staff and fostered public trust.
He also authored a book on healthy lifestyles, receiving several awards, including the Mshua Master Award and so on.
MEDICAL TOURISM
As chair of the National Committee on Medical Tourism,this is an emerging sector in Tanzania's healthcare system.
Prof. Janabi has often highlighted that Africa loses substantial financial resources by sending patients abroad for treatment.
These funds can be retained by strengthening and improving medical services within African countries.
As the Chair of the National Committee on Medical Tourism, Prof. Janabi has laid a strong foundation for this initiative, and Tanzania is beginning to see its benefits.
At Muhimbili National Hospital, he has overseen the establishment of more than 13 specialized services, including bone marrow transplants, minimally invasive kidney transplants, hip and knee replacements, and bariatric procedures for weight management.
Other advancements include advanced dermatology services, plastic and reconstructive surgery, fertility treatments.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones, and endoscopic brain tumor removal through the nasal cavity, among others.
The introduction of these services has not only reduced the number of Tanzanians seeking treatment abroad,
.., but has also attracted international patients to Tanzania for medical care, particularly at Muhimbili and other healthcare institutions.
WHO-AFRO
In the current era of pandemics, rising non-communicable diseases, climate change, and various other health challenges, Africa needs resolute leaders like Prof. Janabi.
His visionary leadership has helped position Tanzania as a regional hub for specialized healthcare.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has emphasized the importance of such initiatives in transforming the healthcare landscape.
Africa requires leaders with broad visions for the continent's future, and Prof. Janabi's credentials clearly establish his suitability.
While his contributions within Tanzania are significant, Prof. Janabi is also actively involved in international research programs and collaborations to advance cardiac care.
He has worked with various global organizations to improve research and treatment standards in cardiology and serves as an international consultant.
He has provided expert cardiac care guidance to several African countries, including Malawi, Zambia, Comoros, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Additionally, he participates in specialized international medical camps, bringing together experts from across Africa and beyond to share knowledge and improve healthcare delivery.
These roles underscore his status as a distinguished leader, consultant, and cardiologist whose efforts have significantly impacted healthcare in Tanzania and across Africa.
Prof. Janabi has earned widespread respect for his dedication to improving health services, his strategic vision, and his practical leadership approach.
However, WHO-AFRO has not yet outline the procedure that will be followed to appoint a new Regional Director, as the current Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, is nearing the end of her term. It is a matter of waiting; let us wait..
Chapisha Maoni