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About

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is an Ethiopian public health official, researcher, and diplomat. He has served as the director-general of the World Health Organization (WHO) since 2017. He is the first African to hold this position, having received an endorsement from the African Union. Tedros has been involved in responses to significant global health crises, including the Ebola virus epidemic, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2022–2023 mpox outbreak.

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Career Timeline

2005D$0.1M

Ethiopia Minister of Health

Appointed as Ethiopia's Minister of Health, beginning his rise in public health leadership. His work combating HIV/AIDS and malaria gained regional recognition.

2012C$0.3M+$0.19999999999999998M

Ethiopia Foreign Minister

Promoted to Minister of Foreign Affairs, expanding his diplomatic experience and international network. This position raised his global profile significantly.

2017B$0.5M+$0.2M

Elected WHO Director-General

Became the first African to lead the World Health Organization, a historic achievement. His election brought him international prominence in global health governance.

2020A$1M+$0.5M

COVID-19 Pandemic Leadership

Led the WHO's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming one of the most visible figures globally. His daily briefings made him a household name worldwide, though he faced significant criticism.

2022B$1.5M+$0.5M

Re-elected WHO Director-General

Won a second term as WHO Director-General despite controversies over pandemic response. His influence remained strong in global health circles but public visibility declined post-pandemic.

2026B$2M+$0.5M

Current WHO Leader

Continues as WHO Director-General, well-known in international health and diplomatic circles. He is recognized globally among informed audiences but not a household name to the general public.

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Last updated: February 23, 2026