Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 88
His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims and a renowned philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 88.
A statement from the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) confirmed that the revered leader died peacefully in Lisbon, Portugal, surrounded by his family.
Aga Khan IV, who was widely regarded as a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, served as the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community. He ascended to the leadership in July 1957 at just 20 years old, succeeding his grandfather. Over the decades, he built an extensive network of charitable and business ventures spanning more than 30 countries.
“Leaders and staff of the Aga Khan Development Network offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide,” the statement read.
Beyond his spiritual role, Aga Khan IV was a visionary philanthropist and businessman. He founded and chaired the Aga Khan Development Network, which has played a pivotal role in healthcare, education, culture, and rural development worldwide.
In East Africa, his legacy is particularly evident through the Aga Khan Health Services, the Aga Khan Education Services, and business investments in institutions such as the Nation Media Group, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), and Jubilee Insurance. His contributions to education include the Aga Khan University and a network of schools across the region.
His Highness last visited Kenya in April 2018 as part of his Diamond Jubilee celebrations, marking 60 years of his leadership.
With an estimated wealth of between $800 million and $13 billion, Aga Khan IV was also known for his passion for horse breeding, luxury real estate, and tourism investments. Holding British, French, Swiss, and Portuguese citizenships, he was regarded as a global statesman and businessman.
“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 statement concluded.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue through the institutions and initiatives he championed throughout his life.