Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed his deep sorrow following the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, who died at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal, on February 4, 2025.
In his tribute, Ruto lauded the Aga Khan’s lifelong commitment to humanitarian work, particularly in education and healthcare. “Our thoughts are with the family of His Highness and the wider Ismaili community,” Ruto wrote, acknowledging the leader’s vast contributions to improving the lives of vulnerable communities worldwide.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which he founded, announced his passing in an official statement. “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 AKDN also noted that his successor would be announced soon. “Leaders and staff of the Aga Khan Development Network offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide. As we honour the legacy of our founder, Prince Karim Aga Khan, we continue to work with our partners to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as he wished, irrespective of their religious affiliations or origins.”
The Aga Khan ascended to the leadership of the Shia Ismaili Muslims in 1957 at the age of 20, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III. Over the past six decades, he spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized populations through education, healthcare, and economic development.
His philosophy was rooted in the belief that Islam is a faith of compassion and tolerance, emphasizing human dignity. The Aga Khan Development Network operates in over 30 countries, managing hospitals, schools, and financial institutions to support socio-economic progress. In Kenya, the Aga Khan University, Aga Khan Hospitals, and various other institutions stand as testaments to his dedication to development.
As the world mourns his passing, many remember his relentless efforts to foster global development and unity. His successor will inherit a legacy of philanthropy, service, and devotion to humanitarian causes.
His Highness the Aga Khan’s passing marks the end of an era, but his vision and contributions will continue to shape lives for generations to come.
