The late Hafidh Ameir Hassan. Photo/Ikulu ya Tanzania
By Newsflash Reporter
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, will be buried on Monday, September 7, 2026, in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, following his death earlier in the day.
The family announced that the burial would take place at 4pm in accordance with Islamic rites and traditions.
“The burial of Hafidh Ameir, husband of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, will take place today at 4pm in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar,” the family said in a brief statement seen by Newsflash.
Hafidh died on Monday morning while receiving treatment for a heart condition at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.
The announcement was made by Tanzania’s Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi, who said Hafidh died at about 8am while undergoing treatment.
“My fellow citizens, it is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Ndejembi said.
“He died on September 7, 2026, at about 8am at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he was receiving treatment for a heart condition,” he added.
Ndejembi conveyed condolences to President Samia, her family, relatives and friends of the deceased, as well as the people of Tanzania.
He said preparations for the burial had already begun in Kizimkazi, where the late Hafidh will be laid to rest.
Regional leaders mourn
The death of Hafidh has drawn messages of condolence from leaders across East Africa, who expressed solidarity with President Samia and the people of Tanzania during the period of mourning.
Kenyan President William Ruto said he had received the news with deep sorrow, describing Hafidh as President Samia’s lifelong companion and a distinguished son of Tanzania.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” Ruto said.
Read more: Samia sworn in amid legitimacy storm
He conveyed condolences on behalf of the Kenyan Government and people, the First Lady, his family and himself, adding that Kenya stood with Tanzania during the difficult period.
“May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest,” Ruto said.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame also expressed his condolences to President Samia, her family and the Tanzanian people.
“My sincere condolences to my sister, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, her family, and the people of Tanzania on the passing of H.E. Hafidh Ameir Hassan,” Kagame said.
He added that the Government and people of Rwanda stood in solidarity with Tanzania as the country honoured Hafidh’s life and legacy.
Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye similarly mourned Hafidh, saying Burundi stood firmly beside Tanzania during the hour of grief.
“With profound sorrow, I have learned of the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” Ndayishimiye said.
“On my own behalf, and on behalf of the Government and people of Burundi, I extend my deepest condolences to President Samia, her family, and the people of Tanzania,” he added.
“In this hour of grief, Burundi stands firmly beside our Tanzanian brothers and sisters. May the Almighty grant President Samia and her family comfort and strength in this difficult time,” Ndayishimiye said.
A private family life
Hafidh and President Samia married in 1978 and were blessed with four children, including Wanu Hafidh Ameir, who is a Tanzanian politician and Member of Parliament.
Hafidh was an academic and agricultural expert but was widely known for maintaining a low public profile.
During his time as the President’s husband, he largely stayed away from public activities and social media, leaving the public with limited information about his personal life.
His decision to remain outside the political spotlight made him a relatively private figure despite his wife’s prominent position as Tanzania’s first female president.
About the Author
