Omanghana
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan is mourning the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who passed away on September 7, 2026, after 48 years of marriage.
Ameir died at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had reportedly been receiving treatment for a heart condition.
He was later laid to rest in Kizimkazi in Tanzania’s South Unguja Region in accordance with Islamic burial traditions. Family members, government officials, political leaders and other mourners attended the funeral to pay their final respects.
President Samia and her late husband married in 1978 and had four children together. Among their children is Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who serves as a member of Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Born in Zanzibar, Ameir pursued studies in agricultural machinery engineering in the United Kingdom. He later worked as an agricultural specialist and academic, contributing his knowledge and experience to the sector.
Despite his wife’s growing political prominence, Ameir largely remained outside the public spotlight. He maintained a private life and rarely appeared at major political events during her rise through Tanzania’s leadership structures.
His position attracted greater public attention in 2021 when Samia Suluhu Hassan became Tanzania’s president. Her assumption of office made Ameir the country’s first First Gentleman, marking a historic moment in Tanzanian politics.
However, he continued to keep a low profile and was widely regarded as a quiet source of support to his wife throughout her political career.
News of his death prompted messages of condolence from leaders and institutions across Africa. Kenyan President William Ruto, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and the African Union Commission were among those who expressed sympathy to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.
The tributes acknowledged the family’s loss and offered prayers for strength and comfort during the period of mourning.
Ameir’s death brings to an end a marriage that lasted nearly five decades and accompanied President Samia through her journey from public service in Zanzibar to Tanzania’s highest political office.
Source: Omanghana
