In brief
Hafidh Ameir Hassan, Tanzania’s first First Gentleman, died at 08:00 local time on Monday after a heart condition. Vice‑President Deogratius Ndejembi announced his passing and said that funerals will take place in Kizimkazi, a village on Zanzibar. The former agricultural academic had a low public profile and had been married to the president since 1978. International leaders, including Kenya’s president, sent messages of sorrow, highlighting his role as a lifelong companion and father. The husband’s death marks a significant moment for the country as it mourns a key figure beside President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The husband of Tanzania’s president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, has passed away after a prolonged heart condition, according to Vice‑President Deogratius Ndejembi who delivered the official announcement.
He was admitted to Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar where he received treatment until his death at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) Monday. Funeral arrangements are currently in progress in Kizimkazi, a village on the semi‑autonomous island.
Hafidh was an academic in agriculture who largely maintained a low profile. Since President Samia took office in 2021, he has been Tanzania’s first First Gentleman, rarely joining her in public appearances.
The couple married in 1978 and have four children together – three sons and a daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Global leaders expressed their sorrow. Kenyan President William Ruto tweeted, "President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son."
In his announcement, Deogratius Ndejembi uttered condolences to Samia, to the family and friends of the deceased, and acknowledged the significant loss for the nation.
