Takeaways

• Zari Hassan has announced her breakup from husband Shakib Lutaaya after five years together.
• The couple cited irreconcilable differences and described the separation as mutual.
• Shakib Lutaaya had not publicly commented on the breakup at the time of publication.

Socialite and businesswoman Zari Hassan has announced the end of her relationship with husband Shakib Lutaaya, bringing their five-year love journey to a close. The couple, who officially tied the knot in a private wedding ceremony in South Africa in April 2023, have been one of East Africa’s most talked-about celebrity pairs.

Zari shared the news through her Instagram Stories on Thursday, revealing that the decision was reached after careful consideration and reflection. In her statement, she explained that they had chosen to part ways due to irreconcilable differences, emphasizing that the separation was mutual and made in the best interests of both parties.

“Five years later, after much thought and reflection, we believe it is best for us to part ways due to irreconcilable differences. While this wasn’t an easy decision, we feel it is the right one for both of us. We appreciate the time we shared, the memories we created, and the support we gave each other. There is no anger or resentment; sometimes two people simply grow in different directions,” part of the statement read.

The breakup may not come as a complete surprise to followers of the couple, whose relationship has appeared relatively quiet in recent months. Observers have also pointed to the challenges of maintaining a long-distance marriage, with Zari spending most of her time in South Africa while Shakib remained largely based in Uganda.

As of publication, Shakib has not publicly commented on the announcement or released a statement regarding the separation.