His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and head of a global development aid foundation, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Lisbon at the age of 88, his foundation announced.
As the leader of the Ismaili community for nearly seven decades, Aga Khan IV was widely respected for his philanthropic work, particularly through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
The foundation, which employs 96,000 people, funds education, health, and infrastructure projects, mainly in Asia and Africa.
“The announcement of his designated successor will follow,” the foundation said, referring to the next leader of the Ismaili community, which numbers between 12 and 15 million worldwide.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Leadership
Born in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1936, Aga Khan IV spent his early years in Kenya before succeeding his grandfather as the Ismaili leader in 1957.
He steered the community through decades of global change while emphasizing education, development, and humanitarian work.
Despite his vast personal wealth, including ownership of luxury yachts and thoroughbred racehorses, he dedicated much of his fortune to charitable causes.
He was recognized globally for his contributions, receiving honorary Canadian citizenship for his efforts in promoting tolerance and development.
Global Tributes
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres mourned his passing, calling him “a symbol of peace, tolerance, and compassion in our troubled world.” Nobel Peace laureate Malala Yousafzai praised his impact, stating, “His legacy will live on through the incredible work he led for education, health, and development around the world.”
A Champion of Peace
Although deeply engaged in global development, Aga Khan IV rarely commented on Middle East conflicts or sectarian divides.
He firmly believed that Islam is “a religion of peace,” arguing that political struggles were often misrepresented as theological disputes.
Holding British, Portuguese, and Canadian citizenship, he based the Ismaili leadership in Lisbon, home to a significant Ismaili community.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Ismaili Muslims and the broader development community. His successor is yet to be announced.