Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar. He was reportedly suffering from a heart condition.

Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi announced Ameir’s death on Monday, saying he passed away at 8:00am local time (06:00 GMT) at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.

Ndejembi said funeral arrangements were already under way in Kizimkazi, a village in Zanzibar, where the family is expected to hold the burial ceremonies.

Ameir, an agricultural academic, largely maintained a low public profile despite being married to Tanzania’s first female president. He became the country’s first First Gentleman when Samia assumed the presidency in March 2021 following the death of President John Magufuli.

In his announcement, Ndejembi conveyed condolences to President Samia, Ameir’s family and friends, leading a wave of tributes from across the region.

Kenyan President William Ruto said he received the news with “deep sorrow”, describing Ameir as a lifelong companion to President Samia, a beloved father and “a distinguished son” of Tanzania.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also extended his condolences to the Tanzanian First Family, saying Zambia stood “side by side” with Tanzania during the difficult period.

Unlike many spouses of African heads of state, Ameir largely stayed away from the political spotlight and was only occasionally seen accompanying President Samia at official functions.

Ameir married Samia in 1978, long before she entered national politics. The couple had four children — three sons and a daughter.

Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, followed her mother into politics and currently serves in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.

Ameir’s death comes at a time when President Samia remains one of East Africa’s most prominent political figures, having become Tanzania’s first woman president and subsequently secured another term in office.