Kagame joins African leaders in mourning President Samia’s Husband

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has joined African leaders in sending condolences following the death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s husband, Mzee Hafidh Ameir Hassan, who died on Monday, September 7, 2026.

In a message of condolence, President Kagame expressed his sympathy to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania, saying Rwanda stands in solidarity with its neighbours as they mourn and honour the life and legacy of the late Mzee Ameir.

“My sincere condolences to my sister, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, her family, and the people of Tanzania on the passing of H.E. Hafidh Ameir Hassan,” Kagame said.

He added that the government and people of Rwanda stand with President Samia and Tanzanians during the period of mourning.

Ameir died at 2:00 a.m. at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar, where he had been receiving treatment for a heart condition.

Kenyan President William Ruto also sent his condolences to President Samia, describing the late Mzee Ameir as her life partner, a beloved father to their children and a son of Tanzania.

Ruto said Kenya stands with Tanzania during the difficult period and is praying for comfort and strength for President Samia and her family.

Other African leaders who have sent messages of condolence include Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Mohamud expressed solidarity with President Samia’s family and the people of Tanzania while praying for the deceased to rest in peace.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, also conveyed his condolences, saying he stands with President Samia, her family and Tanzanians during the difficult period and wishing them strength and comfort.

Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi said he received the news with great sadness and joined President Samia, her family, relatives and friends in mourning.

“This loss is a great one for the family and everyone who was close to the deceased,” Dr Mwinyi said, praying for God to grant President Samia and her family patience, strength and comfort.

Beyond his role as the husband of the Tanzanian president, Ameir is remembered for his contribution to agriculture.

He worked with the Ministry of Agriculture and served as a teacher at Kizimbani Agricultural College.

Former colleague Kassim Biwi described him as an expert in coconut farming and a dedicated worker whose contribution to agricultural development was significant.

Political parties, including CCM, CUF and ACT-Wazalendo, have also sent condolences to President Samia and her family, while members of the public have joined the mourning, offering prayers and encouraging the president to remain strong as she continues to lead the country.

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Mzee Hafidh Ameir Hassan