Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzania's President, dies in Zanzibar

Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died at the age of 76. He passed away at approximately 8:00 a.m. on Monday, September 7, 2026, at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar while receiving treatment for a heart condition.

Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi officially announced the death and extended condolences to the President and the bereaved family. Funeral arrangements are reportedly underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.

An agricultural academic by profession, Ameir became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman in 2021 following his wife's ascension to the presidency. He was known for maintaining a low public profile and rarely appearing at official state functions. The couple married in 1978 and had four children, including Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who serves in the Zanzibar House of Representatives.

Regional leaders, including the presidents of Kenya, Zambia, and Burundi, have issued messages of condolence, expressing solidarity with President Samia and the people of Tanzania during this period of mourning.