Tanzania’s Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi announced Ameir’s death, saying he died at 8 a.m. local time at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital. Ndejembi said Ameir had been suffering from a heart condition.
Funeral arrangements are underway in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar, where the family is preparing to lay him to rest.
Hafidh Ameir Hassan was an agricultural academic who largely stayed away from the public spotlight despite being married to Tanzania’s president. He rarely accompanied Samia at official events and maintained a relatively private life throughout his wife’s political career.
Ameir became Tanzania’s first First Gentleman in March 2021, after Samia assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli. His position was largely ceremonial, and he maintained a low public profile during his time as First Gentleman.
Samia and Ameir Were Married for Decades
Samia and Ameir married in 1978, long before Samia entered national politics. Their marriage spanned several decades as Samia progressed from public service into senior political positions and eventually became Tanzania’s president.
The couple had four children, three sons and one daughter. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, followed her mother into politics and serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
Ameir’s death marks the loss of a husband and father who remained largely away from public attention despite his wife’s prominent political position.
William Ruto Sends Condolences to Samia
Condolences have begun arriving from across East Africa following Ameir’s death, with Kenyan President William Ruto sending a message of sympathy to Samia and her family.
Ruto described Ameir’s death as a loss to the Tanzanian president, her children and the country. He also said Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning and offered prayers for comfort and strength for the bereaved family.
Ruto said Ameir had been a lifelong companion to Samia and a beloved father to their children, while praying for his eternal rest.
African Union Chairperson Offers Condolences
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also expressed his condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.
The African Union published Youssouf’s message on Monday, September 7, in which he wished the family strength, courage and comfort during the difficult period.
Youssouf also prayed for the peaceful repose of Ameir’s soul before ending his message with the Islamic expression, “Inalilahi wainailehi rajiun.”
Funeral Preparations Underway in Zanzibar
As preparations continue for Ameir’s funeral in Kizimkazi, condolences are being received from Tanzania, Kenya and the wider African community.
His death marks the loss of a figure who largely remained outside the political spotlight despite occupying the unique position of Tanzania’s first First Gentleman.
For President Samia, the death represents a deeply personal loss after decades of marriage to Ameir, as the family prepares to say its final farewell in Zanzibar.
