Tanzania’s First Gentleman Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, was buried on Monday, hours after his death was announced, in accordance with Islamic burial traditions.
Hafidh died at about 8 a.m. while receiving treatment for a heart condition at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi said in announcing his death.
His funeral prayers were led by Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh Omar Kaabi in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, where he was laid to rest later in the day.
Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba and Vice President Ndejembi attended the funeral, along with former president Jakaya Kikwete and former Zanzibar presidents Amani Abeid Karume and Ali Mohammed Shein.
Family members, religious leaders and members of the public also gathered for the burial.
Hafidh married Samia in 1978, long before she rose to the presidency. They had four children.
He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in March 2021 when Samia assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli, becoming the country’s first woman to hold the office.
Despite his prominent position, Hafidh maintained a low public profile and largely stayed outside political affairs.
According to information shared during his funeral, he leaves behind two widows, four children and 15 grandchildren.
His death drew messages of condolence from Tanzanian and regional leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto, who expressed sympathy to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania.
Hafidh was born in Kisakasaka village in Unguja and worked in education and agriculture during his career.
He was buried in Kizimkazi on Monday, bringing to a close the final rites attended by family members, senior officials and religious leaders.
