Tanzania is mourning the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday while receiving treatment in Zanzibar.
Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi announced Hassan’s death, saying he passed away at about 8:00 a.m. on September 7, 2026, at Mlimani Mzena Memorial Hospital.
Ndejembi said the President’s husband had been receiving treatment for a heart condition before his death.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Honorable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan,” the Vice President said.
He expressed condolences to President Samia, the Hassan family, relatives, friends and Tanzanians, describing the death as a loss to the nation.
Burial arrangements are already underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, according to the Vice President.
Hafidh Hassan, a retired agricultural officer and academic from Zanzibar, largely maintained a private life despite his wife’s prominent political career and presidency.
News of his death has drawn condolences from across the region, with Kenyan President William Ruto expressing sympathy to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.
Ruto said Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning, extending the country’s support to its neighbouring nation.
President Samia, who became Tanzania’s first female president in 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli, has yet to make a public statement on her husband’s death.
