Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, while receiving treatment for heart complications at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. The news was confirmed by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi.


According to the Vice President, Hafidh died at around 8:00 a.m. after battling a heart condition. He conveyed condolences to President Samia, the bereaved family, relatives, friends, and the people of Tanzania. Funeral arrangements are reportedly underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.


Hafidh Ameir Hassan, a retired agricultural academic and public servant, became Tanzania's first-ever First Gentleman in March 2021 when Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed the presidency following the death of former President John Magufuli. Despite his historic role, he maintained a low public profile and largely stayed away from political activities and media attention.


President Samia and Hafidh were married in 1978 and had four children together. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, serves in Zanzibar's House of Representatives.


Messages of condolence have begun pouring in from across East Africa, with regional leaders expressing sympathy to President Samia, her family, and the people of Tanzania during this difficult period.


May his soul rest in peace.