Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment in Zanzibar.
Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced the death on September 7, saying Ameir died at about 8 a.m. at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital. He had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.
Ndejembi conveyed condolences to President Samia, Ameir’s family and relatives, as well as the people of Tanzania. Funeral arrangements are underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, the family’s home area.
Ameir became Tanzania’s First Gentleman when his wife assumed the presidency in March 2021, becoming the country’s first woman to hold the office. He largely stayed away from the political spotlight despite his wife’s position at the centre of Tanzanian public life.
Before becoming First Gentleman, Ameir was known primarily for his work in agriculture and academia. His relatively private public profile contrasted with the intense political attention surrounding his wife.
The couple married in 1978 and had four children, three sons and a daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a politician serving in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Tributes have begun coming from across East Africa. Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his condolences, describing Ameir as President Samia’s lifelong companion, a beloved father and a distinguished Tanzanian.
The African Union Commission also issued condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania following Ameir’s death.
Ameir’s death comes as President Samia continues her second term in office following Tanzania’s 2025 election.
For Tanzania, the death of the First Gentleman marks a moment of national mourning and a personal loss for the president and her family. Further details on the funeral and burial arrangements are expected from authorities in the coming days.
