Tanzanian President Samia’s husband dies in hospital
Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar after battling a heart condition.
The announcement was made on Monday by Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi, who said Ameir passed away at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital at about 08:00 local time.
Ameir, an agricultural academic, became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in 2021 when President Samia assumed office. Despite his position, he maintained a largely private life and was rarely seen at public events.
He was laid to rest later on Monday at his family residence in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar.
Tributes poured in from across the region following news of his death. Kenyan President William Ruto described the loss as a painful one for both the First Family and the nation.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” he wrote on social media.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also extended condolences to President Samia and the people of Tanzania, while Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye offered prayers for the family and paid tribute to the late First Gentleman.
Ameir married Samia in 1978 before her entry into national politics. The couple had four children together, including Wanu Hafidh Ameir, a member of Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Source: BBC
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