Advertisement
Museveni reveals deep bonds with Suluhu’s family in condolence note
08th September, 2026 02:34 PM
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s close ties with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s family have come into focus after he sent a condolence message following the death of her husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
Museveni has, over the years, maintained a warm relationship with members of Samia’s family, including her son, whose interactions with the Ugandan leader have offered a glimpse into the personal connections shared between the two families.
“The dedication you show must have been supported by your dear husband and family. I have met your son, Mr. Abdul, a few times,” part of Museveni’s note read in part.
The relationship adds a personal dimension to Museveni’s message as Tanzania mourns Hafidh, who was the country’s First Gentleman after Samia became president in 2021.
The Ugandan president noted that he knew Samia way before she rose to lead Tanzania.
“Ever since I started knowing you as Vice-President of the United Republic of Tanzania and now as President, I have witnessed your love for your country and Africa and your dedication,” Museveni stated.
“We have done a lot together in the areas of trade, the East African Oil Pipeline, the Murongo-Kyikagate mini-hydro station, the tarmac roads on the side of Tanzania, the transmission-line from Masaka-Bukoba, the SGR to Isaka and, eventually, to Uganda and beyond, to mention just some.”
Museveni consoles Samia
On Tuesday, September 8, 2026, Museveni shared a condolence letter addressed to Samia, expressing his sympathy following the death of her husband.
In the message, the Ugandan leader conveyed his condolences to Samia and her family while mourning Hafidh’s passing.
Museveni expressed solidarity with the Tanzanian president during what he described as a difficult period, extending his sympathies on behalf of himself, his family and the people of Uganda.
The message comes as condolences continue to reach Samia from leaders across Africa following the death of her husband.
Museveni and Samia have also maintained close political and diplomatic relations, with Uganda and Tanzania sharing longstanding ties as neighbouring East African countries.
However, the Ugandan president’s connection with Samia’s family extends beyond official engagements, particularly through his interactions with her children.
Samia’s family mourns Hafidh
Hafidh was married to Samia for several decades before she became Tanzania’s first female president following the death of former President John Magufuli.
His death has placed Samia and her family at the centre of a period of mourning, with leaders and citizens sending messages of sympathy.
Hafidh largely maintained a private profile despite his position as First Gentleman. His role became prominent after Samia assumed the presidency, making him Tanzania’s first male First Gentleman.
Museveni’s condolence message therefore carries both a diplomatic and personal significance, given his longstanding relationship with Samia and the wider family.
His message of support comes at a time when Samia is balancing her public responsibilities as Tanzania’s president with the personal grief of losing her husband.
The outpouring of condolences from across the region has highlighted the strong regional relationships surrounding the Tanzanian president as she mourns alongside her family.
