Musician Jose Chameleone has joined leaders and public figures across East Africa in mourning the death of Tanzania’s First Gentleman, Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Hafidh’s death was announced on Monday, September 7, 2026. He reportedly died at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.
He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after Samia assumed the presidency in March 2021.
In a condolence message to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania, Chameleone expressed solidarity with the neighbouring country during the period of mourning.
“Natoa rambirambi zangu za dhati kwa Mheshimiwa Rais Samia Suluhu Hassan na familia yake yote kufuatia msiba wa mume wake mpendwa,” Chameleone said.
“I send my sincere condolences to President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her entire family following the death of her beloved husband,” he said.
The musician also prayed for Hafidh’s soul and asked for strength and comfort for the president, her family and Tanzanians.
“Mwenyezi Mungu amlaze marehemu mahali pema peponi, na ampe Mama Samia, familia yake na Taifa zima la Tanzania nguvu na faraja katika kipindi hiki kigumu,” he said.
Chameleone, whose real name is Joseph Mayanja, is one of Uganda’s best-known musicians and has built a substantial following across East Africa. His music spans Luganda, English and Swahili, helping establish him as a prominent figure in the region’s entertainment industry.
He further underscored the longstanding ties between Uganda and Tanzania in his message of condolence.
“Tanzania, tunalia pamoja nanyi. Uganda tuko pamoja nanyi,” he said, meaning: “Tanzania, we mourn with you. Uganda stands with you.”
Funeral arrangements
Funeral arrangements for Hafidh were underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, an area with longstanding family ties.
Further details on the burial were expected to be communicated by the family and authorities.
As a Muslim, Hafidh is expected to be buried according to Islamic funeral rites, which generally encourage burial as soon as reasonably possible after death, subject to necessary arrangements.
His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences for President Samia and her family as Tanzania begins a period of mourning.
