Hafidh Ameir Hassan, the husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, passed away at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, marking a significant loss for the nation as he was undergoing treatment for a heart-related illness.

Tanzania’s Vice-President, Deogratius Ndejembi, announced that Hassan died at 08:00 local time (06:00 GMT) on Monday at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital. He was later laid to rest at his family home in Kizimkazi, a village on the semi-autonomous island of Zanzibar, on Monday evening.

Hassan, an agricultural academic who kept a low profile, became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman when Samia assumed the presidency in 2021, underscoring his unique position in the country's leadership history.

In announcing his death, Vice-President Ndejembi expressed condolences to President Samia, as well as Hassan’s relatives, friends and loved ones.

Leaders from across the region also mourned his passing. Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news with “deep sorrow,” describing Hassan as a lifelong partner to President Samia, a beloved father to their children and a distinguished Tanzanian.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema extended his sympathies to the Tanzanian first family and the people of Tanzania, expressing solidarity during this difficult time. Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye also offered condolences and prayed for strength and comfort for President Samia and her family, asking God to grant Hassan eternal rest.

Hassan married Samia in 1978, before she entered national politics. The couple had four children—three sons and one daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a politician and serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives, highlighting the family's ongoing public service and legacy.