Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan Loses Husband
Hafidh Ameir Hassan was an agricultural academic who largely kept away from the public spotlight. He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after his wife assumed the presidency in 2021.
Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has lost her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.
The death was announced by Tanzania’s Vice-President, Deogratius Ndejembi, who said the former First Gentleman died at about 8:00 a.m. local time (6:00 a.m. GMT) on September 7, 2026, at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.
According to the announcement, Hassan had been battling a heart condition before his death.
Ndejembi expressed condolences to President Samia, the deceased’s family and friends, while funeral arrangements were said to be underway in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar.
Hafidh Ameir Hassan was an agricultural academic who largely kept away from the public spotlight. He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after his wife assumed the presidency in 2021.
His death has drawn condolences from leaders across the region.
Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news with “deep sorrow,” describing Hassan as a lifelong companion to President Samia, a beloved father to their children and a distinguished Tanzanian.
The late First Gentleman was rarely seen alongside President Samia at public events, making only occasional appearances with her during official engagements.
Hassan and Samia married in 1978, before she embarked on her political career. Their marriage produced four children — three sons and a daughter.
Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, followed her parents into public service and currently serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Funeral arrangements are expected to take place in Kizimkazi, where the late academic will be laid to rest.
