President William Ruto has sent a condolence message to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
In a statement on Monday, September 7, 2026, Ruto said he had received the news of Ameir’s death with “deep sorrow”, describing him as a lifelong companion to President Samia and a distinguished Tanzanian.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Kenya, the First Lady, my family and on my own behalf, I convey our heartfelt condolences to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania,” Ruto said.
The Kenyan President said President Samia had lost a lifelong companion, while her children had lost a beloved father and Tanzania had lost a distinguished son.
“Kenya stands with our Tanzanian brothers and sisters in this moment of grief,” Ruto added.
Ameir’s death was announced on Monday by Tanzanian Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, who said he died at 8am at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.
Ameir had been married to President Samia since 1978, with the couple having four children. Tanzania’s official presidential profile identifies him as the President’s husband.
Ruto concluded his message by asking God to comfort President Samia and her family, give them strength during the difficult period and grant Ameir eternal rest.
Funeral arrangements
Funeral arrangements for Hafidh are underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, the home village of President Samia, according to reports.
Hafidh had largely maintained a low public profile despite his wife’s rise through Tanzania’s political leadership to become the country’s first female president in 2021.
The couple married in 1978 and had four children. Hafidh was known for his background in agriculture and became Tanzania’s First Gentleman after President Samia assumed office.
