Tanzania Mourns President Samia's Husband After Heart Complications

(President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Photo Credit: Britannica)

Tanzania is grieving the loss of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who passed away on Monday, September 7 while being treated for heart problems in Zanzibar.

Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced his death at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital at 8:00 am local time.

Ameir had been battling a heart condition.

The vice president extended condolences to President Samia and her family.

Ameir was an agricultural scholar who stayed largely out of the public eye throughout his life.

He became First Gentleman when President Samia took office in 2021.

He rarely appeared at public events and was only occasionally seen alongside the president at official functions.

Ameir and Samia married in 1978, long before she entered politics.

They had four children together - three sons and a daughter.

Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a politician serving in Zanzibar's House of Representatives.

Leaders across Africa have sent messages of sympathy to President Samia.

Kenya's President William Ruto said he received the news with deep sadness, noting that Samia has lost a lifelong companion and Tanzania a distinguished son.

Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema said his country stands with Tanzania during this difficult time, while Burundi's President Évariste Ndayishimiye prayed for the family to find comfort and strength.

Funeral arrangements are taking place in Kizimkazi, a village on Zanzibar.