By Asaye Bankole
Tanzania’s First Gentleman Dies as President Samia Mourns Husband
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan is mourning the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who passed away on Monday while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.
Ameir, who became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when his wife assumed the presidency in March 2021, reportedly died at about 8am local time at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.
His death was announced by Tanzania’s Vice-President, Deogratius Ndejembi, who said the late First Gentleman had been battling a heart condition.
According to the BBC, Ndejembi disclosed that preparations for Ameir’s funeral were already underway in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar.
The death marks a major personal loss for President Samia, who had been married to Ameir for nearly five decades.
The couple got married in 1978, years before Samia began her journey in national politics. Their marriage produced four children—three sons and a daughter.
Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is involved in politics and currently serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
A Private Life Away From Politics
Unlike many spouses of African presidents who frequently participate in public engagements, Ameir largely stayed away from the political spotlight.
The agricultural academic maintained a relatively private life and made only occasional public appearances alongside President Samia at official functions.
His position as First Gentleman was therefore largely defined by his quiet presence rather than an active public political role.
Ruto Pays Tribute
Kenyan President William Ruto was among the first regional leaders to publicly express sympathy to President Samia and her family.
In a message shared on X on Monday, Ruto described Ameir’s death as a significant loss to the Tanzanian president, her children and the wider country.
“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 that President Samia had lost “a lifelong companion,” while her children had lost their father.
Ruto also assured Tanzania of Kenya’s support during the period of mourning.
“Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief,” he said.
The Kenyan president prayed for comfort and strength for President Samia and her family, while asking God to grant the deceased eternal rest.
African Union Joins Condolences
The African Union Commission also joined the growing list of institutions and leaders mourning the death of Tanzania’s First Gentleman.
The Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extended his condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania in a statement issued on Monday.
Youssouf expressed sympathy to the Tanzanian president and her family, wishing them strength and courage as they come to terms with the loss.
He also prayed for the peaceful repose of Ameir’s soul, ending the statement with the Islamic condolence phrase, “Inalilahi wainailehi rajiun.”
Ameir’s death brings to an end the life of a man who largely remained outside the public spotlight but became part of Tanzania’s modern political history after his wife became the country’s first female president.
As funeral preparations continue in Zanzibar, tributes are expected to continue pouring in for the late First Gentleman, while President Samia and her family mourn their loss.
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