TANZANIA MOURNS HAFIDH AMEIR HASSAN, HUSBAND OF PRESIDENT SAMIA SULUHU

Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday, September 7, while receiving medical treatment in Zanzibar. Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death, saying Ameir passed away at about 8am at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment for a heart condition. The announcement has triggered an outpouring of condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.

Ameir became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after his wife assumed the presidency in March 2021, following the death of President John Magufuli. Despite occupying a unique position as the husband of Tanzania’s first female president, he largely maintained a private life away from the political spotlight. He was known as an agriculturalist and academic and rarely featured prominently in his wife’s political activities.

President Samia and Ameir were married in 1978 and had four children, comprising three sons and a daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, later became involved in Tanzanian politics. The couple’s family life remained relatively private throughout President Samia’s rise from public service in Zanzibar to national leadership, including her tenure as vice president before she became president in 2021.

News of Ameir’s death has also attracted condolences from leaders across the region. Kenyan President William Ruto expressed sympathy to President Samia and described the deceased as her lifelong companion and a beloved father. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, also conveyed condolences to the Tanzanian leader, her family and the people of Tanzania following the loss.

According to Vice President Ndejembi, funeral arrangements for Ameir are already underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, an area closely associated with President Samia’s family. His death comes as Tanzania mourns the passing of a figure who largely remained outside the political spotlight despite his wife’s prominent position. Tributes are expected to continue as the country prepares to bid farewell to its First Gentleman.