KIZIMKAZI, Zanzibar — Tanzania’s First Gentleman Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was laid to rest in his home area of Kizimkazi, South Unguja, on Monday, hours after his death.
The burial brought together senior political, government and religious leaders from Tanzania and neighbouring countries, who joined President Samia and her family in mourning the First Gentleman.
The funeral prayer was led by Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh Omar Kaabi, with senior officials and religious leaders attending the ceremony.
Among those present were Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi and Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba.
The ceremony also brought together several prominent figures from Tanzania’s political establishment, including Second Vice President Hemec Suleiman Abdullah, former President Jakaya Kikwete and former Zanzibar presidents Amani Abeid Karume and Ali Mohammed Shein.
Joho, Sudi represent Kenya
Kenya was represented at the funeral by Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi, who attended on behalf of the Kenyan government and people.
Former Zanzibar First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman was also present, alongside ministers and deputy ministers from both the Union Government and the Zanzibar Revolutionary Government.
The attendance underscored the regional significance of Hafidh’s death and the close political and diplomatic ties between Tanzania and Kenya.
Hafidh dies after heart condition
Hafidh died on Monday after receiving treatment for a heart condition, according to an announcement by Tanzania’s Vice President.
Ndejembi announced his death in a statement expressing condolences to President Samia, the family and Tanzanians.
“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Honorable Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan,” Ndejembi said.
He added that Hafidh had been undergoing treatment for a heart condition before his death.
“I offer my deepest condolences to Her Excellency the President, the family, relatives, friends, and all Tanzanians during this time of mourning,” he said.
Hafidh was buried in Kizimkazi, where he was born and where he maintained ties to his home community.
He leaves behind two widows, four children and 15 grandchildren.
A life devoted to teaching
Despite his position as the husband of Tanzania’s president, Hafidh largely maintained a low public profile.
His biography, read at the funeral by Deputy Director of State House Communications Shabaan Kisu, showed a career that began in education.
Hafidh was born on January 1, 1946, in Kisakasaka village in West B District, Urban West Region, Unguja.
He completed his primary education at Kombeni Shakani School in 1960 before joining Tumekuja Secondary School in Mkunazini, where he graduated in 1965.
He later joined Zanzibar Teachers’ College in 1970 and graduated in 1973.
Hafidh subsequently worked as a teacher in several schools in Tanzania, building a career in education before later engaging in agriculture.
His professional life stood in contrast to the political prominence of his wife, with Hafidh generally avoiding the public spotlight associated with the presidency.
Regional leaders send condolences
Hafidh’s death prompted messages of condolence from leaders across Africa.
President Samia received messages from several regional leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, Burundi’s Evariste Ndayishimiye, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
Former Senegalese President Macky Sall also mourned Hafidh, describing him as the “beloved husband” of President Samia.
Ruto said he received news of Hafidh’s death with “deep sorrow”, describing him as a distinguished Tanzanian.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” Ruto said.
The messages reflected the regional relationships maintained by Tanzania and the personal condolences extended to President Samia following the loss of her husband.
A private figure in Tanzania’s presidency
Hafidh was known primarily as President Samia’s husband but maintained a relatively private life throughout her presidency.
Unlike many spouses of heads of state who take on prominent public roles, he largely remained away from the political spotlight.
