Tanzania has been plunged into mourning following the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, while he was receiving medical treatment in Zanzibar.

The death of Tanzania’s First Gentleman was officially announced on Monday, September 7, 2026, by Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who said Hafidh passed away at approximately 8:00 a.m. at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.

According to the announcement, Hafidh had been undergoing treatment for a heart condition before his death.

Vice President Ndejembi expressed condolences to President Samia, the couple’s family, relatives, friends and the people of Tanzania as news of the loss spread across the East African nation. Funeral arrangements were being made in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, the family’s home area.

Hafidh occupied a unique place in Tanzanian history after becoming the country’s first First Gentleman in 2021, when Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli.

Despite his wife becoming one of Africa’s most prominent political leaders, Hafidh largely stayed away from the public spotlight. He was known professionally for his work in agriculture and academia and rarely appeared at major political functions alongside the president.

Hafidh and President Samia reportedly married in 1978 and built a family together long before her rise to Tanzania’s highest political office. The couple had four children — three sons and a daughter.

News of his passing quickly triggered condolences from leaders across Africa.

Kenyan President William Ruto mourned Hafidh as President Samia’s longtime companion and a respected son of Tanzania, while other regional leaders also extended sympathies to the president and her family.

For President Samia, the loss marks an intensely personal moment after decades of marriage and family life together.

As Tanzanians mourn, attention has now turned to Zanzibar, where Hafidh Ameir Hassan is expected to be laid to rest, closing the chapter on the life of a man who remained largely private even after becoming the spouse of Tanzania’s first female president.