Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday morning while receiving treatment for a heart-related condition in Zanzibar. His death was announced by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who said funeral arrangements were already underway.
Highlights
- Hafidh Ameir Hassan died on Monday, September 7, 2026.
- He passed away at about 8am while receiving treatment in Zanzibar.
- Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced his death.
- Funeral arrangements are underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.
- President William Ruto has sent his condolences to President Samia and her family.
Main Story
Hafidh Ameir Dies in Zanzibar
Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, has died while receiving treatment for a heart-related illness in Zanzibar.
Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death on Monday, September 7, saying Hafidh died at around 8am.
He was receiving treatment at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, according to Tanzanian media reports.
The Vice President conveyed condolences to President Samia Suluhu Hassan, her family, relatives, friends and Tanzanians following the death.
Funeral Arrangements Underway
Ndejembi said preparations for Hafidh’s funeral were already underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of condolences from across Tanzania and the wider East African region.
Hafidh had largely maintained a low public profile despite being married to the country’s head of state.
He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after President Samia assumed office in March 2021, following the death of President John Magufuli.
Ruto Mourns Hafidh
Kenyan President William Ruto has joined Tanzanians in mourning the death of Hafidh.
In his message of condolence, Ruto described Hafidh as a lifelong companion to President Samia, a beloved father to their children and a distinguished Tanzanian.
“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,” Ruto said.
Ruto said Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning and prayed for strength and comfort for President Samia and her family.
A Personal Loss for President Samia
Hafidh married Samia in 1978, and the couple had four children.
His death marks a major personal loss for President Samia, who became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021.
As Tanzania begins mourning its First Gentleman, funeral arrangements continue in Zanzibar, with more details expected from the family and authorities.
As Tanzania mourns Hafidh Ameir Hassan, President Samia and her family now face the difficult loss of a husband, father and lifelong companion.
