Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), passed away on February 4, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. The 88-year-old leader died peacefully, surrounded by his family, according to an announcement by AKDN.
As the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismailis, Prince Karim dedicated his life to humanitarian, educational, and cultural development worldwide. His successor will be named in due course, chosen from among his male progeny or close relatives, as per Ismaili tradition.
Born on December 13, 1936, to Prince Aly Khan and Princess Taj-ud-dawlah Aga Khan, Prince Karim became the Aga Khan IV in 1957 at just 20 years old. His appointment bypassed his father, as his grandfather, Aga Khan III, believed a younger leader was better suited for the modern world. That same year, Queen Elizabeth II granted him the title of “His Highness.”
Educated at Harvard, Prince Karim was known for his passion for architecture, education, and philanthropy. His influence extended beyond his religious leadership, shaping economic and social development initiatives globally. In 1959, he founded the Nation Media Group, one of Africa’s largest media houses.
Under his leadership, the AKDN grew into one of the most influential development organizations in the world, supporting education, healthcare, and cultural preservation across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Among his key initiatives:
- Establishing the Aga Khan University (AKU) in Karachi, Pakistan, with branches worldwide.
- Building hospitals, clinics, and public health programs, including the Aga Khan Academy and Aga Khan Hospital in Kenya.
- Restoring historical Islamic sites in Cairo, Kabul, and Delhi through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC).
- Collaborating with global organizations like the United Nations, UNESCO, and the World Bank to advance humanitarian causes.
Beyond philanthropy, the Aga Khan IV was an avid sports enthusiast, representing Iran in downhill skiing at the 1964 Winter Olympics. He also owned one of the most prestigious horse racing and breeding operations in Europe, including the French horse auction house Arqana and breeding farms in Ireland and France.
On February 27, 2014, he made history as the first faith leader to address a Joint Session of the Parliament of Canada, solidifying his global stature.
Prince Karim is survived by three sons and a daughter. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of service and compassion will endure through the institutions he built and the lives he touched.
