PRINCE Rahim Aga Khan V has been appointed the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, who died in Lisbon at the age of 88.

A statement issued yesterday by the Ismaili Muslim community stated the transition ensures the continuity of the Ismaili Imamat’s long standing commitment to humanitarian development, which was the hallmark of Aga Khan IV leadership.

It stated that over decades of service, Aga Khan IV worked tirelessly to enhance quality of life globally, focusing on Africa, Asia, and regions in need of development initiatives.

During his tenure, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) made significant strides in sectors such as education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation.

Africa, particularly Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Mozambique, became key areas for AKDN’s initiatives, including investments in schools, hospitals, microfinance, and sustainable development projects.

With the ascension of Aga Khan V, the Ismaili Imamat has reaffirmed its commitment to continue the work initiated by Aga Khan IV.

Having been involved in AKDN’s governance, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has played a vital role in shaping strategies in climate change, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.

AKDN’s ongoing projects in Tanzania and across Africa include expanding access to quality education through Aga Khan Schools and the Aga Khan University’s East African campuses, strengthening healthcare systems via Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS), supporting economic empowerment through the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED) and financial inclusion efforts, and promoting environmental sustainability with green infrastructure and climate resilience programs.

Born on 12 October 1971, Prince Aga Khan V is the eldest son of Aga Khan IV.

He was educated at Phillips Academy Andover and Brown University, and has served on various AKDN boards, including chairing the Environment and Climate Committee. His leadership promises to continue the Imamat’s focus on sustainability and resilience in its development initiatives.

As the Ismaili community mourns the passing of Aga Khan IV, the Imamat enters a new era with a continued dedication to global development, social progress and humanitarian advancement.