His Highness the Aga Khan: Leaders hail his legacy of compassion and development
The Aga Khan, who died at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal, was the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
Leaders from across the globe have expressed their condolences following the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, highlighting his legacy of compassion, philanthropy, and leadership.
His passing has drawn an outpouring of tributes from leaders, reflecting the profound impact of his humanitarian efforts.
President William Ruto on Wednesday described him as an "extraordinary leader" who went beyond what seemed impossible to help the vulnerable.
'He was an extraordinary leader who went beyond what seemed impossible to help the vulnerable — through his charities in hospitals and schools," he said.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called him a "man of vision, faith, and generosity”.
"Through his tireless efforts in poverty alleviation, healthcare, and gender equality, he championed the cause of the marginalized, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives," he stated.
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remembered him as "an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity" and "a very good friend."
"He will be deeply, deeply missed by people around the world," he said.
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres paid tribute to him on social media, describing him as "a symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion in our troubled world".
I am deeply saddened by the news that His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, has passed away. He was a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) February 4, 2025
I express my deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the Ismaili community. pic.twitter.com/VvXCrq8zPQ
Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai also honoured his legacy, stating that his work "for education, health, and development will live on".
A life dedicated to service
The Aga Khan, who died at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal, was the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
He led the community for over six decades, succeeding his grandfather in 1957 at the age of 20.
Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) expanded its efforts to improve healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for millions worldwide.
"His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, passed away peacefully in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family," reads a statement by AKDN confirming his passing.
The organisation also noted that his successor would be announced soon.
The Aga Khan devoted his life to peace and prosperity for all. He worked across continents and cultures to resolve the world’s greatest humanitarian challenges: poverty, education, and gender inequality.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 5, 2025
He was an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity, and I know…
A global philanthropist and visionary
Beyond his spiritual leadership, Aga Khan IV was a global figure in philanthropy and development.
Through the AKDN, he established numerous hospitals, schools, and economic initiatives in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, regardless of religious or ethnic background.
His commitment to education, poverty alleviation, and healthcare earned him widespread respect.
He was also a prominent figure in the equestrian world, where he was known for his contributions to horse racing.
As the world reflects on his passing, the impact of his work continues.
The Aga Khan Development Network reaffirmed its commitment to his vision.
"As we honour the legacy of our founder, 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," it stated.
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