Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.
Tanzania’s Vice President, Deogratius Ndejembi, announced his death on Monday and conveyed condolences to the president and the bereaved family.
Hafidh became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in 2021 after his wife assumed office as the country’s first female president following the death of President John Magufuli.
He had reportedly been receiving medical treatment for a heart condition.
Ndejembi said arrangements were underway for Hassan’s burial in his family’s native Zanzibar, the semiautonomous archipelago that forms part of Tanzania.
President Samia Hassan is currently serving her second term after winning the country’s disputed 2025 presidential election with more than 97 per cent of the vote. The election was contested by opposition groups after candidates from the two leading opposition parties were barred from participating.
The couple had four children — three sons and a daughter, who is a lawmaker.
Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his condolences to the Tanzanian president and her family, describing Hafidh as a devoted husband and father.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” Ruto said in a condolence message.
Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye also expressed sympathy to President Hassan and the people of Tanzania following the death.
