Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while receiving medical treatment in Zanzibar.
Hassan died on Monday at about 8:00 a.m. local time at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital, according to officials. He had reportedly been battling a heart condition before his death.
The announcement was made by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who conveyed condolences to President Samia, the bereaved family, relatives and friends.
Funeral preparations are underway in Kizimkazi, a coastal village in Zanzibar, where the family is expected to receive mourners.
Hassan, an agricultural academic by profession, largely kept away from the public spotlight despite becoming Tanzania’s First Gentleman when his wife assumed the presidency in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli.
President Samia and Hassan were married in 1978, years before she entered national politics. The couple had four children, three sons and a daughter.
Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is involved in politics and serves as a member of the Zanzibar House of Representatives.
Hassan’s death has triggered messages of condolence from leaders across East Africa and beyond.
Kenyan President William Ruto expressed sorrow over the death, saying President Samia had lost a lifelong companion, while their children had lost a beloved father and Tanzania a distinguished citizen.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also conveyed his condolences, saying Zambia stood with President Samia, the First Family and the people of Tanzania during the difficult period.
Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye similarly sent a message of sympathy to President Samia and the Tanzanian people.
The death of Hassan has drawn widespread attention across the East African region, with leaders and citizens joining Tanzania in mourning a man who largely maintained a private life while supporting his wife throughout her political career.
As funeral arrangements continue in Zanzibar, tributes are expected to grow from across Tanzania and the wider region in honour of Hassan, whose career was largely rooted in academia and agriculture.
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