In a momentous announcement that has captivated millions of Shia Ismaili Muslims worldwide, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini has been declared as the successor to the revered position of Aga Khan. Following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Aga Khan, at the age of 88, the mantle of spiritual leadership now falls upon the shoulders of Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini.
Designated as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, Prince Rahim assumes a role steeped in history and tradition. The Ismaili community, tracing their lineage back to the esteemed Prophet Muhammad, holds a global population of approximately 15 million adherents, with significant concentrations in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and various parts of Africa.
The transition of leadership was formalized following the revelation of Prince Karim’s will, as confirmed by the Aga Khan Development Network. Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, now known as Aga Khan V, steps into this esteemed position with a legacy of benevolence and compassion already established by his late father. The Aga Khan Development Network, under Prince Karim’s stewardship, has been instrumental in spearheading numerous charitable initiatives focused on healthcare, education, and cultural enrichment, particularly in underprivileged regions across the globe.
Prince Karim Aga Khan, who assumed the Imamat at the youthful age of 20 upon his grandfather’s passing, leaves behind a profound legacy of philanthropy and enterprise. His multifaceted business ventures, encapsulated by investments in hotels, telecommunications, and renowned horse breeding activities, underscored his commitment to both social welfare and economic advancement.
Notably, Prince Karim’s involvement in the realm of horse breeding yielded the illustrious creation of Shergar, a legendary racehorse celebrated for its exceptional prowess and value. This amalgamation of business acumen and altruism solidified his reputation as a leader with a profound impact on diverse sectors of society.
As the eldest son of Prince Karim Aga Khan and Begum Salimah, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini inherits not only a prestigious title but a legacy defined by compassion and service to humanity. Educated in the United States and currently residing in Switzerland, Prince Rahim has been actively engaged in the charitable endeavors championed by the Aga Khan Development Network.
Emphasizing environmental conservation and climate change mitigation as key priorities, Prince Rahim’s leadership within the AKDN reflects a steadfast commitment to addressing urgent global challenges. His tenure as the chair of the Environment and Climate Committee underscores a dedication to sustainable practices and the preservation of our planet for future generations.
Moreover, Prince Rahim’s personal life, marked by his marriage to former American fashion model Kendra Spears, signifies a union bridging disparate worlds with a shared commitment to philanthropy and social progress. Their union has been blessed with two sons,
