Zambia, Kenya Leaders Mourn Death of Tanzania President’s Husband Hafidh Hassan

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and his Kenyan counterpart, William Ruto, have expressed condolences to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.

Hichilema, in a message posted on X, said Zambia stood with President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania during the period of mourning.

“We convey our deepest condolences to Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan on the passing of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan,” Hichilema said.

“We stand side by side with the first family, and all citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania during this difficult time.”

Ruto also said he received the news of Ameir’s death with deep sorrow, extending condolences on behalf of the Kenyan government and people, his family and the First Lady.

“I have received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania,” Ruto said.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Kenya, the First Lady, my family and on my own behalf, I convey our heartfelt condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.”

Ruto described Ameir as a lifelong companion to President Samia, a beloved father to their children and a distinguished Tanzanian.

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“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” he said.

“Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief. May Almighty God comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength through this difficult time, and grant Hafidh Ameir Hassan eternal rest.”

TVC News earlier reported that Tanzania’s Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi announced Ameir’s death, saying he had been suffering from a heart condition.

Ndejembi said Ameir died at 8:00 a.m. local time on Monday at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.

He added that funeral arrangements were underway in Kizimkazi, a village on Zanzibar, Tanzania’s semi-autonomous island.

Ameir was an agricultural academic who largely maintained a low public profile. He became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman after Samia assumed the presidency in 2021.

While announcing his death, Ndejembi extended condolences to President Samia, Ameir’s family and friends, while leading tributes to the late academic.