Tanzania is mourning the death of First Gentleman Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who died on Monday, September 7, 2026.
Hassan passed away at around 8am while receiving treatment at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar after developing heart complications.
The death was announced by Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who conveyed the news to the public with a message of condolence to the First Family and the people of Tanzania.
“Fellow citizens, it is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of Honourable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Honourable Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Ndejembi said.
He confirmed that Hassan had been undergoing treatment for heart disease at the Zanzibar hospital before his death.
The Vice President extended condolences to President Samia, her family, relatives and friends, saying preparations for the burial had already begun in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar.
The announcement has also drawn messages of sympathy from leaders across the region, including Kenyan President William Ruto.
Ruto conveyed his condolences to President Samia and the Tanzanian people, describing Hassan as a beloved father and Tanzania as having lost a distinguished son.
Funeral arrangements are currently underway in Zanzibar as Tanzania comes to terms with the loss of the First Gentleman.
