Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, was laid to rest in Doha following his death at the age of 74.
Sheikh Hamad’s death was announced on Sunday morning, and a simple funeral ceremony was held after the evening prayer at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in the capital.
Tributes have since poured in from across Africa, with leaders praising the late Father Emir’s role in Qatar’s rapid modernization and his enduring strategic partnerships with the continent.
In a condolence message issued on behalf of the African Union Commission, Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf extended his sympathies to the people of Qatar, describing Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader.
“His legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to dialogue, mediation and diplomacy, and by his belief in the power of peaceful solutions to address regional and global challenges,” Youssouf said.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame also joined other leaders in mourning the former emir.
In a statement posted on X, Kagame addressed Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, describing him as his “brother” while extending condolences to the royal family and the people of Qatar.
“His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today,” Kagame wrote. “His legacy of service to his people and commitment to friendship and cooperation among nations will endure for generations.”
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan also conveyed her condolences, highlighting the late leader’s contribution to Qatar’s development and his efforts to advance women’s empowerment.
“The late former Emir of Qatar will be remembered for his significant contribution to the socio-economic development of Qatar and his critical role in advancing women’s empowerment, especially their enfranchisement,” she said.
Nigeria also paid tribute to the late leader. In a statement issued on Sunday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa described the former emir as “a distinguished and visionary leader.”
The ministry extended Nigeria’s condolences to Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with Qatar during this time of grief and prays that Almighty God grant His Highness the Father Amir eternal rest in paradise, grant his family and the Qatari people patience and solace, and give them strength and comfort in this difficult time,” the statement said.
Among Sheikh Hamad’s lasting legacies was the promulgation of Qatar’s first permanent constitution in 2004. During his tenure, the country also introduced municipal elections, allowing women to vote and stand as candidates for the first time.
