Spiritual leader of the Ismaili Shia community was known for his development work around the world.
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili Shia Muslim community and known for his development work around the world, has passed away in Lisbon at the age of 88.
The Aga Khan Development Network has announced that the designation of a successor to Karim al-Husseini will take place soon.
According to Ismaili tradition, a successor will be chosen from the Aga Khan’s male progeny.
The Aga Khan, who lived in France and recently in Portugal, will be buried in Lisbon. He is survived by three sons, a daughter, and several grandchildren.
He was born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva and spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya before returning to Switzerland for his education. He later studied Islamic history at Harvard.
After his grandfather’s passing, he became the imam of the Ismaili Muslims at the age of 20.
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.
I express my deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the Ismaili community. pic.twitter.com/VvXCrq8zPQ
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) February 4, 2025
As the Aga Khan, he was believed by Ismailis to be a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad through his cousin Ali and Ali’s wife Fatima.
He was known for bridging the gap between Muslim societies and the West and was a defender of Islamic culture and values.
Despite his involvement in philanthropy and cultural preservation, he led a luxurious lifestyle with private jets, superyachts, and a private island in the Bahamas.
The Aga Khan Development Network, his main philanthropic organization, focuses on healthcare, housing, education, and rural economic development.
Operating in more than 30 countries with a large budget, it aims to improve living conditions in impoverished areas of Africa and Asia.
