Mugabe may be stripped of controversial World Health Organization goodwill ambassador role after outcry

President Robert Mugabe has long faced United States sanctions over his government's human rights abuses
President Robert Mugabe has long faced United States sanctions over his government's human rights abuses Credit: AP Photo/Themba Hadebe

Robert Mugabe's appointment as a goodwill ambassador for the World Health Organisation is under consideration after it was described as "disappointing" by the UK and met with dismay by international aid workers.

Mr Mugabe was honoured by the WHO - the healthcare branch of the UN - for his work towards eliminating non-communicable diseases on Friday in Uruguay. 

However, the head of the World Health Organization said Saturday he is "rethinking" his appointment of Mr Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador.

In a tweet, WHO director-general Tedros Ghebreyesus said: "I'm listening. I hear your concerns. Rethinking the approach in light of WHO values. I will issue a statement as soon as possible."

Uruguay's President Tabare Vazquez meets his Zimbabwe counterpart Robert Mugabe at Uruguayan presidential building 
Uruguay's President Tabare Vazquez meets his Zimbabwe counterpart Robert Mugabe at Uruguayan presidential building  Credit: REUTERS/Andres Stapff

Critics pointed out that most of non-communicable diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, cannot be treated by Zimbabwe hospitals as they do not have cash to import drugs.

“President Mugabe’s appointment is surprising and disappointing, particularly in light of the current US and EU sanctions against him,” a UK government spokesman said. 

"Although he will not have an executive role, his appointment risks overshadowing the work undertaken globally by the WHO on non-communicable diseases.” 

Mr Mugabe, who seeks medical treatment in Singapore, expanded Zimbabwe’s health service dramatically after independence in 1980.

However, by 2006 Zimbabwe had the worst life expectancy in the world, with women expected to live until they were only 36, and men to 37. 

In 2008, international aid organisations were forced to step in during a cholera epidemic that killed some 6000 people died and infected more than 100,000.

Greg Powell, a veteran medical doctor in Harare and a founder member of Doctors for Human Rights, told The Telegraph: “The health service is in a sorry state across the board, kids are sent out to buy drugs so they can be treated in state hospitals. They haven’t even got bandages.”

A donor who provides medical services for Zimbabwe’s department of health censured the decision, speaking to The Telegraph on the condition of anonymity. 

“How can the WHO do this?" they said. "The main state hospital doesn't work. Rural clinics have no drugs. It’s disgraceful.” 

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