His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, founder of the Aga Khan Development Network, passed away on Tuesday in Lisbon, Portugal.  

His death shook the world, with global leaders sharing thoughtful and emotional tributes to the 49th hereditary spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, who say they are direct descendants of Prophet Muhammad. The Aga Khan was widely recognised for his philanthropic work. Over the years, his combination of philanthropy and business ventures expanded his influence beyond religious leadership, shaping development efforts in East Africa, Central Africa and South Asia.  

Born in Geneva on December 13, 1936, to Prince Aly Khan and British mother Joan Yarde-Buller, he spent part of his early years in Nairobi. This deep-rooted connection to East Africa inspired his vision for establishing institutions such as the Aga Khan Academies, the Aga Khan University in Nairobi, the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nation Media Group, Industrial Promotion Services (Kenya), Allpack Industries, Farmer’s Choice Ltd, Premier Food Industries Ltd, and Tourism Promotion Services Eastern Africa.  

He was educated at the prestigious Le Rosey School in Switzerland and later attended Harvard University, where he studied Islamic History. In 1957, at the age of 20, he was chosen to succeed his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, as the Ismaili community’s spiritual leader following his death. He abandoned his ambitions of obtaining a doctorate in history to assume this role.  

His brainchild, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), grew into one of the world’s largest private development agencies, operating in more than 30 countries. It has made significant contributions to healthcare, education, historical restoration, economic development, and environmental conservation. Among his notable projects was the restoration of Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, India.  

Like his predecessor, the Aga Khan also served as President of the League of Nations. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to human development and social progress, the Aga Khan received numerous honorary degrees, awards, and decorations from institutions and nations worldwide over the past six decades.  

He’s been succeeded by his son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, who becomes the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.