Botswana has entered the race for the World Health Organisation’s top job, backing an Armenian cancer specialist who says his nomination reflects a wider ambition to build international support across geographical boundaries.
Botswana has thrust itself into the global contest for the World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General position by nominating Armenian paediatric oncologist Dr Gevorg Tamamyan to succeed Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in 2027.
The nomination, confirmed on WHO’s list of prospective candidates, places Botswana among countries seeking to influence the leadership of the United Nations health agency.
Tamamyan is a professor and chair of the Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology at Yerevan State Medical University. He is also editor-in-chief of OncoDaily, an international oncology news platform.
Explaining how Botswana came to nominate him, Tamamyan revealed that he visited the country in August and held discussions with President Duma Boko and government ministers.
“During my visit to Botswana in August, I had the pleasure and honor of meeting President Boko and honorable ministers. Yes, we discussed my possible nomination. I presented my vision for global health and for a
stronger WHO that works for countries and their people. I shared my firm belief that geography must not decide who lives. We were speaking the same language, and I asked for their support for my nomination if they
found it appropriate.”
He said Botswana was among several governments he approached in pursuit of a cross-regional nomination, arguing that nationality should not determine eligibility for global health leadership.
“I am deeply grateful to President Boko and the Government of Botswana for their decision and their trust.”
No Financial Burden
Tamamyan has also moved to allay potential concerns about the financial implications of Botswana’s involvement in his campaign.
“Regarding campaign financing, it will not cost anything to Botswana. There absolutely no expectations. So far, the costs have been very limited, and I have covered them myself. My team has also been generously volunteering their time, and I am deeply grateful to them.”
His candidature will face competition from nominees backed by other governments, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, China, Spain and Indonesia.
The WHO Executive Board will shortlist candidates in January 2027 before the World Health Assembly elects the next Director-General in May.
