Dr Samia sends condolence following the death of Fatma Karume, widow of Zanzibar’s first President

Mama Fatma Karume, the widow of Zanzibar's first President, the late Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, passed away at the age of 97. She died on Monday, September 21, 2026, at her residence in Mbweni, Zanzibar. The official announcement of her death was made by Zanzibar's Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla.

Following the announcement, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, issued an official message of condolence. The passing of Mama Fatma marks the loss of a prominent historical figure as the widow of Zanzibar's founding leader and Chairman.