Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan Loses Her Husband

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has lost her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.

Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi officially announced the death and said Ameir had been suffering from a heart condition. Funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, a village on Zanzibar, he said.

Ameir, an agricultural academic, largely kept a low public profile and rarely appeared with his wife at official events. He became Tanzania's first gentleman when Samia became president in March 2021. The couple married in 1978 and had four children, three sons and a daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, serves in Zanzibar's House of Representatives.

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President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.

Kenyan President William Ruto offered his condolences in a message posted on X. “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” he wrote. Ruto added that Kenya stood with Tanzania and prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved family.

African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also expressed condolences to Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania. He conveyed sympathy during what he called a difficult period and wished the family strength, courage and solace.

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Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief.