Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, died while receiving treatment at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. Vice‑President Deogratius Ndejembi announced that the former First Gentleman had been battling a heart condition and noted funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, a village on the island.
Hameir, an agricultural academic, had largely kept a private life, becoming Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when Samia was elected in 2021. The couple married in 1978 and together raised four children. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Kenyan President William Ruto posted to social media that he received the news with “deep sorrow.” He wrote, “President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.”
