Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday, September 7, 2026, while receiving treatment for a heart condition at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.
The death was announced by Tanzania’s Vice President, Deogratius Ndejembi, who expressed condolences to President Samia, her family, relatives, friends and the people of Tanzania.
Hafidh Ameir became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in 2021 after his wife assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli. He was the first man to hold the position in Tanzania’s history.
Despite his wife’s prominent political career, Hafidh largely maintained a low public profile. He had a background in education and agriculture and was known for supporting his wife away from the political spotlight.
Hafidh and President Samia were married in 1978 and had four children. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a member of the Zanzibar House of Representatives.
Following the announcement of his death, messages of condolence came from leaders across Africa. Among those who expressed sympathy were Kenyan President William Ruto, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Tinubu expressed condolences to President Samia, her children, the Hassan family and the people of Tanzania, saying Nigeria stood in solidarity with Tanzania during the period of mourning.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as chairperson of the Southern African Development Community, also extended condolences to President Samia following the death of her husband.
Hafidh was laid to rest in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, on Monday following funeral prayers led by Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh Omar Kaabi. Government, religious and political leaders attended the funeral.
His death marks a personal loss for President Samia and her family, as well as a significant moment for Tanzania, where he served as the country’s First Gentleman from 2021 until his death.
