Ismaili Muslim Leader and Philanthropist Aga Khan No More

February 5, 2025

(3 Minutes Read)

Regarded by his followers as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV was a student when his grandfather chose him over his father to lead the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, believing that a young leader “who has been brought up amid the new age” was essential.

Aga Khan who was the spiritual head of Ismaili Muslims is no more. Apart from being a religious leader, and having followers across Africa, especially in East Africa, he owned several industrial enterprises and was a philanthropist. He died in Portugal surrounded by his family.

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) plays a vital role in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, concentrating on health, education, media, and economic growth. The Aga Khan University and the Aga Khan Foundation have a notable impact, operating hospitals, schools, and community initiatives throughout the region.

The Aga Khan, who assumed the role of spiritual leader for millions of Ismaili Muslims at the age of 20 while studying at Harvard, has passed away at 88. He dedicated a vast fortune to developing homes, hospitals, and schools in underprivileged regions.

His will has named a successor, which will be revealed in a ceremony attended by family and senior religious leaders in Lisbon. The successor will be selected from his male descendants or other relatives, as outlined on the Ismaili community’s website.

He officially became the Aga Khan IV on October 19, 1957, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, at the same location where his grandfather had once received gifts from followers that equalled his weight in diamonds. A staunch advocate for Islamic culture and values, he was widely recognized as a builder of communities.