Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the country’s First Gentleman, has died while receiving medical treatment in Zanzibar.

Hassan died on Monday, September 7, 2026, according to Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi. He was receiving treatment for a heart condition at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar.

Ndejembi announced the death while extending condolences to President Samia, the deceased’s family, relatives, friends and the people of Tanzania.

Funeral arrangements were already underway in Kizimkazi, in southern Zanzibar, according to the vice president.

Hafidh Ameir Hassan was an agricultural scholar and retired agricultural officer from Zanzibar who largely maintained a low public profile despite his wife’s rise to the highest political office in Tanzania.

He became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in March 2021 when Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli. Her accession made her Tanzania’s first female president, while Hassan became the country’s first male presidential spouse.

The couple married in 1978 and had four children. Their daughter, Wanu Hafidh Ameir, is a politician who has served in Tanzania’s legislature.

Hassan was known for largely staying away from the political spotlight, supporting his wife while she carried out her official responsibilities. Reports describe him primarily as an agriculturalist and academic before becoming First Gentleman.

News of Hassan’s death has prompted condolences from leaders across East Africa.

Kenyan President William Ruto expressed sympathy to President Samia and her family, saying Kenya stood with Tanzania during the period of mourning. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also conveyed condolences to the Tanzanian president and the country’s people.

Hassan’s death comes as President Samia continues her second term in office after winning Tanzania’s 2025 presidential election.

The Tanzanian government is expected to provide further details on funeral arrangements as the country begins mourning the First Gentleman.