Shakib Describes First Meeting with Zari Hassan

In a recent interview, Shakib shared how he first met Zari in South Africa under unexpected circumstances.

Shakib had been living in South Africa for a few years when he spotted a distinctive car ahead of him while driving down Main Road.

It was a sleek Mercedes Benz with the number plate “Zari 3 GP,” and instantly, Shakib recognized the name. Feeling a rush of excitement, he decided to follow the car, hoping to meet Zari in person.

When he reached the place where Zari’s car had parked, he gathered the courage to approach her. “I’m a Ugandan, and I’m your fan. I like you. I just came to say hi,” he said. Zari, initially cautious, quickly headed towards security.

However, realizing that Shakib posed no threat, she relaxed and allowed him to speak. She introduced her son, who was celebrating his birthday that day, and Shakib wished him well before leaving.

Although their interaction was brief, it left an impression, and Shakib was hopeful for the future.

Two years later, Shakib attended a birthday party without realizing that Zari would be there. The party was hosted by a mutual friend, and this time, Shakib’s interest in Zari grew.

At the event, Zari, who was single at the time, seemed to show interest in him. Shakib began to watch her more closely, hoping for an opportunity to connect.

Though Zari initially ignored him, their interactions shifted when she casually mentioned to her friend that she was aware of his attention.

As the night progressed, Shakib managed to dance with Zari, despite several bouncers trying to stop him.

Zari, however, intervened and told them, “No, he’s a cool person. It’s okay.” By the end of the night, Shakib had Zari’s phone number, and he boldly told her that he was interested in her and asked if she would be open to a date.

As their relationship developed, they faced criticism, particularly from the Ugandan community. Many were against Shakib and Zari’s relationship because of her past relationships with high-profile men, including her late husband, Ivan Ssemwanga.

In 2023, the couple made it official and got married. Zari had to address rumours that Shakib had worked as her late husband Ivan’s watchman, a claim that had started circulating in the media.

Both Shakib and Zari were quick to deny the accusations. Zari explained that Shakib had never worked for Ivan and that the photos circulating of him with Ivan were simply taken while they were socializing.

Although there are still rumours about his past, Shakib has made it clear that he does not let public opinions affect him.

“Everyone is free to say what they want. You can’t stop them,” he said. He added, “I know the truth. She also knows the truth.”