His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025 at the age of 88. His life was dedicated to improving the lives of millions globally through the AKDN, regardless of their faith, origin, or gender. His legacy of service, hope, and peace will continue to inspire future generations.

A life of service

Born in 1936, Aga Khan IV succeeded his grandfather as Imam in 1957 at age 20. His primary concern was improving the quality of life for the Ismaili community and those around them. Guided by Islamic principles, he established the AKDN, a group of development agencies focused on education, health, economic development, cultural preservation, and civil society strengthening. Under his leadership, AKDN became one of the world's largest private international development organisations, impacting vulnerable populations in Asia and Africa.

AKDN's impact in Bangladesh

AKDN's presence in Bangladesh spans nearly seven decades, beginning with investments in the jute industry in the mid-19th century.

In 1981, Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED) helped launch IPDC (Industrial Promotion and Development Company), the country's first private-sector financial institution. IPDC played a crucial role in reshaping private sector industrialisation.

Habib Bank Limited, another AKFED company, arrived in Bangladesh in 1976, promoting best banking practices.

The Aga Khan School, Dhaka, established in 1988, marked the beginning of a significant commitment to education. Its success led to the opening of the Aga Khan Academy Dhaka in 2022. In addition, the Aga Khan Foundation's International Scholarship Programme supports Bangladeshi students pursuing postgraduate studies abroad.

Aga Khan IV championed architectural excellence through the Aga Khan Award for Architecture (AKAA), which recognises projects utilizing local resources and innovative technology. Eight Bangladeshi projects have received this prestigious award, highlighting the country's rich architectural heritage and its contributions to innovative design.

A 2013 Protocol of Cooperation formalised the partnership between the Government of Bangladesh and AKDN, strengthening their shared commitment to national progress.

A global leader for peace

Widely respected as a statesman and humanitarian, Aga Khan IV engaged with global leaders, advocating for policies that promoted social harmony, peace, and sustainable development. He built bridges between the West and Muslim societies. In recognition of his work, he received numerous awards and honorary degrees.

Global leaders expressed their condolences upon his passing including French President Emmanuel Macaron, Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, and others. His commitment to diversity and inclusion earned him honorary Canadian citizenship and the honorary Companion of the Order of Canada.

The Global Centre for Pluralism, inspired by his work, aims to build a better world and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto serves as a lasting legacy.

His son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, will continue his father's legacy as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Chairman of the AKDN.

Aga Khan IV's life was dedicated to service, and his legacy continues through the institutions he built and the lives he touched.