Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan, youngest son of His Highness the Aga Khan, arrived yesterday in Khorog, the capital of Tajikistan’s Gorno Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) for an official visit, according to the GBAO administration press center.  

On the same day, Prince Aly Muhammad visited the Khorog Campus of the University of Central Asia (UCA).

While in Khorog, Prince Aly Muhammad will also visit the Aga Khan Medical Center, Ismaili Center and Jamatkhana (a place of congregational worship for Shia Ismaili Muslims) and some other projects of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in the region.

It is the first visit of Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan to Tajikistan.

Founded and guided by His Highness the Aga Khan, the Aga Khan Development Network brings together a number of development agencies, institutions, and programs that work to empower communities and individuals to improve living conditions and opportunities, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South Asia, and the Middle East.  The Network’s nine development agencies focus on social, cultural and economic development for all citizens, regardless of gender, origin or religion.  AKDN’s underlying ethic is compassion for the vulnerable in society.

AKDN agencies work in Tajikistan in a range of areas—from economic development to education, rural development to cultural revitalization, health care to financial services.  Operating in the country since 1992, AKDN draws on a strong base of experience in working with mountain societies.  The Network is present in all regions of Tajikistan through its operations and investments, including the PamirEnergy Company, Tcell Telecommunications, and the First MicroFinanceBank.

The Aga Khan Development Network serves as Tajikistan’s largest private employer, through a committed staff of 3500 in 8 agencies.  It is also the largest taxpayer and remains dedicated towards improving the long-term livelihoods, living conditions, and economic opportunities of all Tajiks.