Prince Rahim Aga Khan named 50th Imam of Ismaili Muslims

Prince Rahim Al Hussaini Aga Khan V was on Thursday named the 50th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismaili Muslims.

The announcement came following the unsealing of the will of his late father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who passed away in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88.

Born in 1971, Prince Rahim Aga Khan is the eldest son of the late Aga Khan IV and Begum Salimah. Educated in the United States, he has been deeply involved in the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), serving on its boards and chairing its Environment and Climate Committee.

A staunch advocate for environmental sustainability, the new Aga Khan has played a key role in initiatives tackling climate change and poverty alleviation. The AKDN, established in 1967, employs 80,000 people worldwide and focuses on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Prince Rahim Aga Khan was honoured with Pakistan’s highest civilian award, the Nishan-i-Pakistan, during his visit last year. The award recognised his contributions to economic, health, and educational initiatives benefiting marginalised communities across Asia and Africa.

Throughout their 1,400 year history, the Ismailis have been led by a living, hereditary Imam. The Ismailis live in over 35 countries and number approximately 12 to 15 million.

Following the passing of Aga Khan IV, tributes poured in from world leaders, acknowledging his dedication to humanitarian efforts. A funeral will be held in Lisbon on Saturday, marking the transition of leadership to his eldest son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V.