Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan loses husband

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has lost her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.

Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi officially announced the death, according to the BBC. He said Ameir had been battling a heart condition before his death.

Ndejembi said the First Gentleman died at 8am local time at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. He added that funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar.

Ameir was an agricultural academic who maintained a largely private life. He rarely appeared with his wife at official events.

He became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman after Samia assumed the presidency in March 2021.

The couple married in 1978, before Samia entered national politics. They had four children, three sons and a daughter.

Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a politician and serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.

Ruto Condoles With Samia

Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed condolences to President Samia following the death of her husband.

Ruto shared his message on X on Monday, describing Ameir as a lifelong companion to the Tanzanian president and a beloved father to their children.

“I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” Ruto said.

He added, “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.”

Ruto said Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning.

“Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief,” he said.

The Kenyan president also prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved family.

“May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest,” Ruto said.

AU Sends Condolences

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has also condoled with President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.

The AU published the condolence message on its website on Monday, September 7.

Youssouf expressed his “deepest condolences” to President Samia and her family over the death of her husband.

He also extended his sympathy to the Tanzanian leader and wished the family strength, courage and solace during the difficult period.

The AU Commission chairperson prayed for the peaceful repose of Ameir’s soul.

“Inalilahi wainailehi rajiun,” he concluded.