His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, has sadly passed away.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) confirmed his death, noting that he died peacefully in his sleep on the night of Wednesday, February 4, 2025, at the age of 88.
The AKDN released a statement saying, “His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, surrounded by his family at the age of 88.”
The statement also mentioned that the Aga Khan was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, an organization dedicated to improving lives across the globe.
AKDN further announced that details about his successor would be shared at a later time. The leaders and staff of the network extended their deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the Ismaili community worldwide, honoring the legacy of the late Imam.
They assured that they would continue the work of improving the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as per his vision, regardless of their background or faith.
Prince Karim Al-Hussaini was a billionaire and an internationally recognized figure. His contributions spanned various sectors, especially in Kenya, where he made significant investments, including in the Aga Khan schools, hospitals, media organizations (he founded the Nation Media Group, which owns NTV and the Daily Nation), and the Aga Khan University.
As a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad, Prince Karim Aga Khan was not only a spiritual leader but also an influential philanthropist, working tirelessly through his network to address global challenges in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Kenyan President William Ruto expressed his sorrow over the loss, calling the late Aga Khan an extraordinary leader who went above and beyond to help vulnerable people through his charitable efforts in hospitals and schools.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims,” said President Ruto.
“He was a remarkable leader who made significant strides to help the vulnerable, supporting them through his charitable initiatives.”
Former United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also mourned the passing of Prince Karim, describing him as a symbol of peace and compassion in a world that often struggles with conflict. “I am deeply saddened by the news of His Highness’s passing,” Guterres said. “He was a beacon of peace, tolerance, and compassion in our troubled world.”
Born in Geneva on December 13, 1936, to Aly Khan and British-born Joan Yarde-Buller, Prince Karim spent his early childhood in Nairobi, Kenya.
His life and work touched many, leaving a lasting impact across various sectors, from education to healthcare to economic empowerment, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential figures of his time.
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