Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has delivered President William Ruto’s message of condolence to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan. Joho travelled to Tanzania on Tuesday, September 8, accompanied by Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, to convey Ruto’s message of sympathy and support to President Samia and her family. In a statement shared on social media, Joho said he had the “solemn opportunity” to personally deliver Ruto’s message of condolence and encouragement following Hafidh’s death.

“I had the solemn opportunity to deliver H.E. President Dr. William Samoei Ruto’s message of condolence and encouragement to H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, following the passing of her beloved husband, Mzee Hafidh Ameir Hassan,” Joho said.

Joho said he and Sudi also assured President Samia and her family of Kenya’s support during the mourning period.

“Accompanied by Hon. Oscar Sudi, I assured H.E. President Samia and her family of our thoughts and prayers as they navigate this painful period,” he said.

The visit followed Ruto’s public message of condolence issued after Hafidh’s death on Monday. Ruto expressed sympathy to President Samia, her family and the people of Tanzania, describing Hafidh as a lifelong companion to the Tanzanian leader, a father and a distinguished Tanzanian. Joho and Sudi also attended Hafidh’s burial in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, where he was laid to rest on Monday, hours after his death. Kenyan media reported that the two represented Kenya at the funeral, which was attended by senior Tanzanian political and religious leaders. Hafidh died on Monday morning at Emilio Mzena Memorial Hospital in Zanzibar while receiving treatment for a heart condition. His death was announced by Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi.

Hafidh became Tanzania’s First Gentleman in March 2021 after Samia assumed the presidency following the death of President John Magufuli. His position was historic because Samia became Tanzania’s first female president, making Hafidh the first man to occupy the unofficial First Gentleman role in the country. Despite his wife’s position at the head of government, Hafidh largely maintained a private life and remained away from the political spotlight. He was known primarily for his background in agriculture and education and had worked as an agricultural officer before retiring. Hafidh married Samia in 1978, and they had four children. Their daughter, Mwanu Hafidh Ameir, has served in the Zanzibar House of Representatives.

Joho’s visit comes as Tanzania continues to mourn Hafidh, whose death has drawn messages of condolence from leaders across the region, including Ruto and the African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. In his message, Joho prayed for comfort and strength for President Samia, her family and the Tanzanian people. The visit also underscores the close ties between Kenya and Tanzania, which cooperate closely as neighbouring members of the East African Community. For President Samia, the visit came a day after she lost her husband of nearly five decades and as Tanzania continued funeral and mourning arrangements following Hafidh’s death.