Nationwide — Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died at 71 while receiving treatment for a heart condition in Zanzibar. His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from government officials and regional leaders. Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death Monday, saying he had died at 8 a.m. local time at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. Ameir had been receiving treatment for a heart condition before his death, as reported by BBC. Ndejembi expressed his condolences to President Samia, as well as Ameir’s relatives and friends.
He was buried Monday evening at his family’s home in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar. The burial took place just hours after officials announced his death. The village has personal significance for the family, with the private ceremony allowing relatives to mourn away from the public spotlight.
The agricultural academic became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when Samia became president in 2021. However, he rarely appeared beside her at official events and generally maintained a low public profile. His limited presence in political life kept much of his personal life away from public attention, even as his wife became one of Tanzania’s most prominent political figures.
Samia and Ameir had been married since 1978, years before she entered national politics. They had four children together, including three sons and a daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, followed her mother into politics and serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives. The family has remained connected to both Zanzibar and Tanzania’s public life over the years.
News of his death drew condolences from leaders across the region. Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news with “deep sorrow” and described Ameir as a lifelong companion to Samia and a beloved father to their children. Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema said his country stood with Tanzania and the first family during the difficult period. Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye also offered prayers for the family, asking for comfort and strength following the loss.