President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has lost her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who passed away at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar due to a heart condition, as announced by Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi. Ameir, an agricultural academic known for his low public profile, had been the country’s first First Gentleman since Samia took office in 2021. His death occurred on Monday at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT), and funeral arrangements are in progress in their village of Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.
Tributes poured in from various leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the grief of the family and the nation. Other leaders, such as Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema and Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye, also extended their condolences, standing in solidarity with the first family during this challenging time. Ndayishimiye offered prayers for comfort and strength for Samia and her family.
Hafidh Ameir, who married Samia in 1978 and had four children—three sons and a daughter—was rarely seen publicly with her, appearing at official events only occasionally. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is actively involved in politics, serving in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives within the National Assembly. This personal and national loss marks a significant moment for both the family and the Tanzanian people as they mourn a distinguished individual who led a life dedicated to academia and family.
