Hafidh Hassan, husband of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Zanzibar.
Gatekeepers News reports that Hafidh, who had been suffering from a heart condition, died at 8am local time on Monday at the Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital, Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi announced.
Ndejembi expressed condolences to the president and her family, adding that arrangements were underway for Hafidh’s burial.
Hafidh became Tanzania’s first gentleman in 2021 after his wife assumed office as the country’s first female president following the death of President John Magufuli.
An agricultural academic, Hafidh largely stayed away from the public spotlight and made only occasional appearances alongside his wife at official functions.
The couple had four children — three sons and a daughter who serves as a lawmaker in Zanzibar’s House of Representatives.
President Samia is currently serving her second term after winning a disputed election last year with more than 97 percent of the vote.
Regional leaders express condolences
Leaders across East and Southern Africa have expressed condolences to President Samia and her family following Hafidh’s death.
Kenyan President William Ruto said he received news of Hafidh’s passing with “deep sorrow”.
“President Samia has lost a lifelong companion, her children a beloved father, and Tanzania a distinguished son,” Ruto said.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, whose inauguration President Samia attended last week, said Zambia “stand[s] side by side” with Tanzania’s first family and the country during “this difficult time”.
Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye also conveyed his condolences to President Samia and wished her and her family “comfort and strength”.
