ZANZIBAR, Tanzania — Tanzania has begun a period of mourning following the burial of Hafidh Ameir Hassan, husband of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in Kizimkazi, South Unguja.

Ameir died on September 7, 2026, while receiving treatment for a heart condition at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. He was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic funeral traditions.

The funeral brought together senior government, political and religious leaders, including Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi, Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi and Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba. Former national and Zanzibar leaders also attended the ceremony.

The funeral prayers were led by Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh Omar Kaabi, while government officials and members of the community gathered to pay their final respects.

Ameir, who married Samia in 1978, maintained a relatively private public profile. Before and after becoming Tanzania's First Gentleman in 2021, he was known for his work in agriculture and education. He retired from the Ministry of Agriculture in 2005 but continued teaching at Kizimbani Agricultural College.

His death has prompted condolences from across Tanzania and the wider East African region, including messages from neighbouring political leaders.

The loss comes as President Samia continues her second term as Tanzania's head of state, placing the First Family under significant public attention during the national mourning period.

The burial in Kizimkazi marks the final farewell to a figure who largely remained outside frontline politics while supporting the President throughout her rise to the country's highest office.