The world has bid farewell to a towering figure of spiritual leadership, philanthropy, and economic transformation. Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and a key investor in Uganda’s media, education, and financial sectors, passed away peacefully in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88. His death marks the end of an era that spanned nearly seven decades, leaving behind an indelible legacy that touched millions of lives worldwide.
A Life of Leadership and Service
Born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, Aga Khan IV ascended to the position of Imam at just 20 years old following the passing of his grandfather, Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, in 1957. For 67 years, he served as the spiritual leader of over 12 million Ismaili Muslims, guiding them not only in matters of faith but also in global development, education, and humanitarian work. His tenure as Imam was the longest in Ismaili history, characterized by an unwavering commitment to improving lives across multiple continents.
Transforming Uganda’s Media and Education Landscape
In Uganda, Aga Khan IV’s influence is deeply woven into the country’s media and education sectors. As the founder of the Nation Media Group, he played a pivotal role in shaping independent journalism through platforms like Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda. These institutions became pillars of press freedom, professional reporting, and informed public discourse in a country where media independence has often been tested.
Beyond the newsroom, Aga Khan IV’s vision extended into education. The Aga Khan Schools in Kampala have long been synonymous with academic excellence, offering internationally recognized curricula that have nurtured generations of Ugandan students. His dedication to higher learning also manifested in the establishment of Aga Khan University, further expanding educational opportunities in the country.
Economic Contributions: Banking, Insurance, and Infrastructure
Aga Khan IV’s impact on Uganda was not confined to education and media; his influence stretched into banking, insurance, and infrastructure. Through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), he established Diamond Trust Bank and Jubilee Insurance, two financial giants that have supported Ugandan businesses and individuals for decades.
His contributions to Uganda’s industrial growth are evident in ventures such as Kampala Pharmaceutical Industries (KPI), a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer, and Uganda Fishnet Manufacturers (UFM), a key player in the country’s fisheries sector. These investments not only provided economic opportunities but also strengthened Uganda’s self-sufficiency in crucial industries.
One of his most transformative projects was the Bujagali Hydropower Plant, a $900 million flagship initiative that significantly boosted Uganda’s energy capacity. Through the West Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECo), he also championed electrification efforts in underserved regions, improving livelihoods and fostering economic growth.
A Champion of Social Development and Cultural Preservation
Beyond business and finance, Aga Khan IV remained a committed philanthropist. The AKDN spearheaded numerous health, cultural, and rural development projects in Uganda, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for communities regardless of religious or ethnic backgrounds.
His vision for sustainable urban development was realized through PDM Uganda Limited, which pioneered innovative real estate projects that redefined Uganda’s urban landscapes. Meanwhile, Serena Hotels, another AKDN entity, became a cornerstone of Uganda’s tourism industry, blending luxury with cultural heritage and local empowerment.
A Lasting Legacy
Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s final visit to Uganda was during his Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2018, marking 60 years of his leadership. His passing is not just a loss to the Ismaili community but to the world at large, particularly Uganda, where his contributions have left an enduring mark on the nation’s progress.
As Ismaili traditions dictate, his successor will be announced following the reading of his will, ensuring the unbroken continuity of the Imamat. His words remain a guiding light
