World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
This week’s most important headlines out of and about Africa
In this week’s news, an Ethiopian is elected the new WHO Managing Director, South Africa’s President faces more investigations for alleged corruption, and longtime Zimbabwean leader, Robert Mugabe goes on a speaking tour.
Ethiopian Politician Named Head of the WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has elected Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as its new Director General. Ghebreyesus was formerly Ethiopia’s health minister, and is the first African to ever be elected to lead the WHO. He won the election by 66%, beating out the UK’s David Nabarro for the job.
During his time as health minister, Ghebreyesus created 3,500 new medical centers and added 38,000 healthcare jobs. With the WHO, he promises to continue bringing better healthcare to those who need it.
South Africa Seeks Corruption Probe
The African National Congress (ANC) is calling for an investigation into South African President Jacob Zuma after leaked emails suggested corruption within Zuma’s family. The emails, known as the GuptaLeaks, show an illegal relationship between Zuma and the Gupta family of businessmen. They suggest that the Guptas hold influence over the government of South Africa, and that Zuma’s son, Duduzane, acts as a middleman between the two families.
Zuma’s popularity has declined over the years, with numerous calls for him to step down. This is not the first time that he has been accused of or investigated for corruption. Regardless of if the ANC is able to get an investigation into the emails, Zuma’s term as President will be over next year.
Mugabe Starts Speaking Tour
Robert Mugabe, the controversial President of Zimbabwe, has embarked on a speaking tour across his nation. Although he is 93 years old and apparently in frail health, Mugabe plans to run for re-election again next year. Mugabe will speak at 10 locations, and the subject of discussion is said to be youth issues. The events will also serve to bring in support for Mugabe in the upcoming election.
