Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has sent condolences to his Tanzanian counterpart Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
In a message to President Samia, Museveni described Hafidh’s death as “bad news” and expressed sympathy to the Tanzanian president, her family and the people of Tanzania.
“It was with a lot of sadness, that I received the bad news of the death of your dear husband, Mr. Hafidh Hassan,” Museveni said.
He extended condolences on behalf of the people of Uganda, his family and himself.
Museveni also reflected on his longstanding relationship with President Samia, saying he had witnessed her commitment to Tanzania and Africa since she served as vice-president of the United Republic of Tanzania.
“Eversince I started knowing you as Vice-President of the United Republic of Tanzania and now as President, I have witnessed your love for your country and Africa and your dedication,” he said.
The Ugandan president highlighted several projects and areas of cooperation between Uganda and Tanzania, including the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), the Murongo-Kyikagate mini-hydropower station, road infrastructure in Tanzania and the Masaka-Bukoba electricity transmission line.
He also cited the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), including plans for its extension to Uganda and beyond, as part of the cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
Museveni said President Samia’s dedication to public service must have received support from her husband and family.
“The dedication you show must have been supported by your dear husband and family,” he said, adding that he had met the couple’s son, Abdul, on several occasions.
Museveni acknowledged the personal magnitude of the loss for President Samia, saying: “It must, therefore, be a great loss to you.”
He ended his message with a prayer for the Tanzanian president and her family during their bereavement.
“I pray that the Almighty God sees you through these dark days. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Museveni said.
