Tanzania is in mourning following the sad news of the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the beloved husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi officially shared the heart-wrenching announcement with the nation on Monday, September 7.
Hafidh Ameir Hassan passed away at 8:00 AM at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving specialized medical care for a ongoing heart condition. Expressing deep sorrow on behalf of the government, Vice President Ndejembi offered his heartfelt sympathies to President Hassan, her family, and the entire nation during this dark hour.
Preparations for the funeral have already commenced in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, where family members and citizens are gathering to pay their last respects. Although President Samia Suluhu Hassan has not yet made a public statement, a heavy atmosphere of grief has swept across Tanzania as citizens unite to honor his memory.
Heartfelt Tributes from African Leaders
Condolences have begun pouring in from across the continent, with Kenyan President William Ruto expressing deep sadness over the news. Describing Hassan as a distinguished son of Tanzania and a devoted partner, President Ruto affirmed that Kenya stands firmly with its neighboring nation, praying for God to grant the President strength and comfort during this painful time.
Echoing similar sentiments, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye extended his condolences, assuring President Samia and her family of Burundi’s solidarity. Organizations across the continent, including the Africa CDC, have also released statements offering their deepest sympathies and support to the grieving First Family.
Beyond his role as the First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan was a respected academic specializing in agriculture. Known for his quiet and unassuming nature, he chose to maintain a relatively low public profile throughout his life, rarely making headline appearances unless necessary.
The couple married in 1978, long before President Samia stepped into national politics, and together they raised four children—three sons and a daughter. Although Hassan became the First Gentleman of Tanzania when his wife assumed the presidency in 2021, he preferred to support her mostly behind the scenes, occasionally joining her at major official and political events. Today, his legacy lives on through his family, including his daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who serves as a politician in the Zanzibar House of Representatives.
