Tanzanian President Samia's husband dies in hospital

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar, Vice‑President Deogratius Ndejembi announced. Ndejembi said Ameir had been suffering from a heart condition and passed away at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) on Monday at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital. The vice‑president added that funeral arrangements are underway in Kizimkazi, a settlement on the semi‑autonomous island of Zanzibar. Ameir, an agriculture specialist who maintained a low public profile, became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman after President Samia assumed office in 2021. He rarely appeared alongside the president at official events, only occasionally joining her at such functions. In his statement, Ndejembi conveyed his condolences to President Samia, Ameir’s family and friends. Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news of Ameir’s passing with “deep sorrow.” Ruto wrote on social media, “President Samia has mislaid a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son.” Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema also offered condolences, stating that they “stand broadside by side” with the first family and all of Tanzania during “this hard time.” The couple married in 1978, before Samia entered national politics. They had four children—three sons and a daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, currently serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives within the National Assembly.