The Aga Khan, a common name around the world, including Kenya, the imam of the Ismaili Muslims and head of a major development aid foundation, has died in Lisbon at the age of 88.
Aga Khan was the founder and president of the Aga Khan Development Network that has roots all over the world. The Network employs over 96,000 people and finances development programmes, particularly in Asia and Africa.
In Kenya, Aga Khan has hospitals, universities, major stakes in the media industry, and has taken part in massive corporate social responsibility that has massively impacted the lives of millions of Kenyans.
“His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family,” the foundation said on social media.
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Present in multiple countries, notably in central and southern Asia, Africa and the Middle East, the Ismaili community numbers 12 to 15 million, according to its website. The next leader to tex over the mantle will be “named soon” according to the official website.
United Nations chief Antonio Guterres described the Aga Khan as “a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world” following the religious leader’s death.
The family and his Foundation have not given more details on the next steps but analysts say the immediate decision will be to announce a replacement, a person who will take over since the 19th century.
Aga Khan was installed leader when he was only 20 years only and while still in college, Harvard. He ended up creating wealth and spreading his influence through the Aga Khan network all around the world with major interest in universities, hospitals, and media.
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