Aga Khan’s Legacy: Life of Philanthropy, Leadership, and Impact

Prince Karim Aga Khan, a world-renowned philanthropist and spiritual leader, has died, his charity, the Aga Khan Development Network, announced on Wednesday. Reuters reported this information in a report.

The Aga Khan, who died in Lisbon at the age of 88, was the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili sect of Shia Islam, who are direct descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. The Aga Khan’s charity said in a statement on social media that he “passed away peacefully” in Lisbon, Portugal.

Born in Switzerland on December 13, 1936, the Aga Khan had British citizenship. He later returned to Switzerland and studied at Le Rosie School. He then moved to the United States to study Islamic history at Harvard. He lived in France.

Aga Khan was appointed Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims at the age of 20 after the death of his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan. 

Reuters reported that the name of the Aga Khan’s designated successor will be announced. His wealth was estimated at between $800 million and $13 billion. 

The report says the Aga Khan’s charities run hundreds of hospitals, educational and cultural projects, mainly in the developing world. He enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle, owning a private island in the Bahamas, a super-yacht and a private jet.

The Aga Khan Development Network said it “expresses its condolences to His Highness’ family and the Ismaili community worldwide.” 

The statement said, “Regardless of religious affiliation or origin, we are working with our partners to improve the quality of life of individuals and communities around the world, as he desired.”

The Ismaili Muslim community has a worldwide population of about 15 million, including 500,000 in Pakistan. The community also has large populations in India, Afghanistan, and Africa.