Ismaili community appoints Aga Khan V as 50th hereditary Imam

LISBON: The Ismaili Muslim community has announced the appointment of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the passing of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, who passed away in Lisbon at the age of 88.

The transition marks a continuation of the Ismaili Imamat’s longstanding commitment to humanitarian development and progress, a cornerstone of the work carried out under Aga Khan IV’s leadership.

Over his decades of service, Aga Khan IV dedicated himself to improving quality of life globally, with a strong focus on Africa, Asia, and other regions where development initiatives were most needed.

Under his guidance, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) expanded its efforts to strengthen education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation across multiple continents.

Africa, and particularly Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Mozambique, became key areas of focus, with significant investments in schools, universities, hospitals, microfinance, and sustainable development projects aimed at fostering long-term progress.

With the transition to Aga Khan V’s leadership, the Ismaili Imamat has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the continuation of all projects and programmes initiated by Aga Khan IV.

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Having been actively involved in AKDN’s governance, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has played a critical role in shaping development strategies, particularly in areas related to climate change, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation.

Born on 12 October 1971, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V is the eldest son of Aga Khan IV. Educated at Phillips Academy Andover and Brown University, he has served on multiple AKDN boards and chaired its Environment and Climate Committee, reinforcing the network’s focus on sustainability and long-term resilience in development efforts.

As the Ismaili community observes the passing of Aga Khan IV, the Imamat transitions into a new era, maintaining its commitment to global development, social progress, and humanitarian advancement.