‎Mourning in Tanzania as husband of President Samia dies in Zanzibar

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‎Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, passed away on Monday at a Zanzibar hospital where he was being treated for a heart ailment.
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‎The announcement was made by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who conveyed his sympathy to the grieving family. He noted that preparations are underway for the burial to take place in Zanzibar, the family’s home region and a semiautonomous island chain within Tanzania.
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‎Hafidh Ameir Hassan assumed his role as the nation’s first gentleman in 2021 when his spouse, Samia Suluhu Hassan, made history as Tanzania’s first female head of state following the demise of former President John Magufuli.
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‎President Hassan was reelected for a second term in 2025, securing over 97% of the votes in a contentious election where two prominent opposition candidates were disqualified from competing. Together, the couple raised four children: three sons and a daughter who serves as a member of parliament.
‎International leaders have sent messages of sympathy following the news.
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‎ Kenyan President William Ruto offered condolences representing his nation, stating, “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.” Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye also extended his sympathies to the Tanzanian president and her citizens.