His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims has passed away.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) confirmed his death noting that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday night.
“His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family,” the Network announced
“Prince Karim Aga Khan was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network.”
AKDN further revealed that the announcement of his designated successor would follow in due course.
Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, a billionaire with investments spanning Kenya’s economy including the Aga Khan schools, hospitals, media establishments, and university died in Lisbon, Portugal at the age of 88.
He was the direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and the chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network.
”We are saddened by the passing of The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims. He was an extraordinary leader who went beyond what seemed impossible to help the vulnerable — through his charities in hospitals and schools. Our thoughts are with the family of His Highness and the wider Ismaili community,” President Ruto shared.