Regional leaders mourn Samia's husband with burial set for today

Nairobi, Kenya — African leaders have shown their support for Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan. Messages of condolence have been flooding in from various regions across the continent. Leaders from Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Zambia have all expressed their solidarity with President Samia and the Tanzanian people as they mourn the loss of their First Gentleman.

Tanzania's Vice President, Deogratius Ndejembi, confirmed Hafidh's passing on Monday, sharing the news at approximately 8 a.m. while the President was being treated at Mlimani Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar. Ndejembi informed the public that Hafidh had been battling a heart condition leading up to his death. "I offer my deepest condolences to Her Excellency the President, the family, relatives, friends, and all Tanzanians during this time of mourning," Ndejembi said.

Burial preparations are already underway in Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, according to Ndejembi. The African leaders' expressions of solidarity were as follows:

- Kenyan President William Ruto expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Hafidh as a distinguished Tanzanian and sympathizing with President Samia and her family. He stated that Kenya stands beside Tanzania during this difficult period and has offered prayers for strength and comfort to the First Family.

- Rwandan President Paul Kagame also conveyed his condolences to President Samia, expressing that Rwanda stands in solidarity with Tanzania and her people during their mourning. He wished strength and comfort to President Samia and her family.

- Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye conveyed profound sorrow over Hafidh's death and extended his deepest condolences to President Samia, her family, and the people of Tanzania. Ndayishimiye pledged Burundi's steadfast support for Tanzania.

- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also extended condolences to President Samia, her family, and the Tanzanian people, reaffirming Ethiopia's support and solidarity with the United Republic of Tanzania.

- Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended condolences to President Samia, wishing her family and the people of Tanzania may Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaws (Paradise).

- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema expressed solidarity with the Tanzanian First Family, stating that Zambian citizens stand with President Samia and her family during this trying time.

- Former Senegalese President Macky Sall mourned Hafidh, describing him as the beloved husband of President Samia. He offered heartfelt condolences to President Samia, her family, and the people of Tanzania.