Ruto awards Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, Princess Zahra Aga Khan Kenya’s highest honour
The Aga Khan family has long been involved in Kenya’s development, and these recognitions also reflect the lasting legacy of Aga Khan IV, who passed away earlier this year.
President William Ruto has awarded Prince Rahim Aga Khan V and Princess Zahra Aga Khan with Kenya’s highest civilian honours in recognition of their contributions to the country’s development.
According to a gazette notice dated March 7, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V was conferred the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), while Princess Zahra Aga Khan received the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH). The honours were officially granted on February 28, 2025.
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The awards acknowledge their distinguished service, particularly through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which has played a crucial role in Kenya’s growth in areas such as health, education, and infrastructure.
The Aga Khan family has long been involved in Kenya’s development, and these recognitions also reflect the lasting legacy of Aga Khan IV, who passed away earlier this year.
Prince Rahim, born in Geneva in 1971, is the eldest son of the late Aga Khan IV. He studied at Brown University and IESE Business School before taking on leadership roles within the AKDN, focusing on environmental and climate-related initiatives.
Following his father’s death in February 2025, he assumed the role of the 50th hereditary Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, adopting the title Aga Khan V.
Princess Zahra, the eldest daughter of Aga Khan IV, is a Harvard graduate who has dedicated her career to the AKDN.
She holds key positions within its agencies, including the Aga Khan Foundation and the Aga Khan University, where she has played a major role in shaping policies on health, education, and microfinance.
The Order of the Golden Heart is the highest honour in Kenya and consists of three categories: Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH), and Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart (MGH).
The CGH, which was awarded to Prince Rahim, is typically reserved for heads of state or exceptional global leaders, while the EGH, received by Princess Zahra, is given to individuals who have provided outstanding service to Kenya.
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