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Wanu Hafidh Ameir: 5 things to know about Samia Suluhu’s daughter serving in cabinet
08th September, 2026 03:45 PM
Wanu Hafidh Ameir has been in the political spotlight for years, but her profile rose further after her mother, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, appointed her to the Cabinet.
Wanu serves as Tanzania’s Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology, placing her in one of the country’s key government ministries. Her appointment came during a cabinet reshuffle announced by President Samia in November 2025.
But who is Wanu Hafidh Ameir? Here are five things to know about the Tanzanian politician.
- She is Samia Suluhu’s only daughter
Wanu is the eldest child and only daughter of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her late husband, Hafidh Ameir Hassan.
She has three brothers, making her the only daughter in the family. Her father, who was Tanzania’s first First Gentleman, died on September 7, 2026, while receiving treatment for a heart condition in Zanzibar.
- She has been in politics for years
Wanu’s political career did not begin with her mother becoming president.
She has served in Tanzania’s political institutions since 2005, representing Zanzibar, and retained her parliamentary seat in the October 2025 General Election on the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) ticket.
- She is a lawyer
Away from politics, Wanu is a lawyer by profession.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Open University of Tanzania, giving her a legal background alongside her political experience.
- Serves as Deputy Minister of Education
President Samia appointed Wanu Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology in November 2025.
She serves alongside Minister Adolf Mkenda, taking on responsibilities in a ministry that oversees key areas of Tanzania’s education and scientific development.
- Married to Tanzania’s Health Minister
Wanu is married to fellow CCM politician Mohamed Mchengerwa.
Mchengerwa is a Member of Parliament for Rufiji and was appointed Tanzania’s Minister of Health in the same Cabinet reshuffle that saw Wanu become Deputy Minister of Education. This means the husband-and-wife duo both hold senior government positions.
Beyond government, Wanu has also been involved in social initiatives. She chairs the Mwanamke Initiatives Foundation, which focuses on women, youth and children, particularly in areas including health, education and socio-economic development.
Wanu’s journey from Zanzibar politics to a senior role in Tanzania’s national government has continued to draw attention, particularly because of her position within the country’s first family and her husband’s Cabinet role.
