Rahim al-Hussaini, the eldest son of the late Mawlana Shah Karim Aga Khan IV, has been named the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslim community. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) made the announcement on Wednesday, one day after the passing of Aga Khan IV in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88.
The late Aga Khan IV, known for his immense philanthropic contributions and leadership of the Ismaili community, left behind a legacy of humanitarian work that spanned decades. His efforts in fostering global development and improving the welfare of millions have been recognized by leaders worldwide, with tributes pouring in following his death.
Also Read: Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader of Ismaili Muslims, Passes Away at 88
Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network played a pivotal role in addressing issues such as poverty alleviation, education, and healthcare in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. The Aga Khan’s influence also extended into the business world, with ventures that included airlines, racehorses, and media holdings, contributing to his status as one of the wealthiest hereditary leaders.
As the new Imam, Prince Rahim is expected to continue his father’s legacy of philanthropy. He has been deeply involved in the AKDN’s operations, serving on multiple boards and focusing on initiatives that promote education, health, and sustainable development. His work has been particularly notable in environmental conservation and climate change, where he has led efforts to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainability.
Born on October 12, 1971, Prince Rahim’s journey to leadership has been shaped by a rich educational background. After attending Phillips Academy Andover and earning a degree in Comparative Literature from Brown University, he dedicated his career to serving both the Ismaili community and the global population. His work within AKDN has focused on improving the lives of marginalized populations through education, economic empowerment, and poverty alleviation.
Prince Rahim’s leadership comes at a time of both challenge and opportunity for the Ismaili community, which numbers between 12 to 15 million across over 35 countries. With his deep commitment to global engagement and service, he is poised to guide the community into a new era of growth and transformation.
