Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while receiving treatment for a heart-related condition in Zanzibar, plunging the country into mourning.
Tanzania’s Vice President, Deogratius Ndejembi, announced the death on Monday, September 7, confirming that Ameir died at around 8 a.m. at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Honorable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Ndejembi said, extending condolences to the President and the wider family.
“I offer my deepest condolences to Her Excellency the President, the family, relatives, friends and all Tanzanians during this time of mourning,” he added. Funeral arrangements are currently underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.
Ameir, an agriculturalist and academic known for keeping a low public profile, married Samia in 1978 and became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when she assumed the presidency in March 2021, following the death of President John Magufuli. The couple had four children together, three sons and a daughter, including Mwanu Hafidh Ameir, who currently serves in the Zanzibar House of Representatives.
Tributes have poured in from across the region. President William Ruto joined Tanzanians in mourning Ameir’s death, describing him as a lifelong companion to President Samia and a beloved father.
“I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband to Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” Ruto said, extending condolences on behalf of Kenya.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Kenya, the First Lady, my family and on my own behalf, I convey our heartfelt condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania. President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” he added.
He also reaffirmed Kenya’s solidarity with its neighbour. “Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief. May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest.”
Ameir’s death comes at a significant moment for Tanzania, as the country continues to navigate key economic and political reforms under President Samia’s leadership, including efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen regional trade ties.
Flags are expected to fly at half-mast across government buildings as the nation observes a period of mourning for its late First Gentleman, a moment officials have described as both a deeply personal loss for the President and a time of national reflection for the country.
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