Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s husband dies in hospital

Tanzania is mourning Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment for a heart condition in Zanzibar.

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deep sorrow

Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death, saying Ameir died at 8 a.m. local time at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital. Funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, a village on Zanzibar.

Ameir, an agricultural academic, largely stayed out of the public spotlight. He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after Samia became president in 2021 and only occasionally appeared with her at official events.

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

Leaders from across Africa expressed their condolences. Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news with “deep sorrow,” adding that “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.” Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema said he stood “side by side” with the first family and Tanzania during “this difficult time.”

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side by side

Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye prayed for comfort and strength for the family and said, “May he [God] grant eternal rest to the soul of Hafidh Ameir Hassan.” Ameir and Samia 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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May he [God] grant eternal rest to the soul of Hafidh Ameir Hassan.