Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.
Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who was known for maintaining a private life away from the political spotlight, died on Monday morning at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.
Tanzania’s Vice-President, Deogratius Ndejembi, announced his death and said Ameir had been battling a heart condition.
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According to the announcement, he died at about 8:00 a.m. local time.
Funeral preparations are underway in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar, where relatives and mourners are expected to gather to pay their final respects.
Tributes from African leaders
News of Ameir’s death has prompted condolences from leaders across the region.
Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his sorrow over the death, saying President Samia had lost a lifelong companion and her children had lost their father.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also sent his condolences to Tanzania’s first family, saying his country stood with them during the difficult period.
Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye joined the tributes, praying for comfort and strength for President Samia and her family.
A private life away from politics
Ameir was an agricultural academic and largely stayed away from the public spotlight despite being married to one of Tanzania’s most prominent political figures.
He became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when Samia Suluhu Hassan became president in 2021.
The couple had been married since 1978, before Samia entered national politics. They had four children together — three sons and a daughter.
Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is also involved in politics and serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Unlike many political spouses, Ameir rarely appeared alongside President Samia at public functions. His limited public presence meant that much of his personal life remained away from the media.
His death now marks a deeply personal loss for President Samia, her family and many Tanzanians who have expressed their condolences following the announcement.
written by @enock katamba
- Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.
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