The Khaama Press News Agency reported on December 13 that as the Shia Ismaili Muslim community and admirers worldwide commemorate the 87th birthday of Prince Karim Aga Khan, also known as Aga Khan IV, global leaders and several leaders from Islamic countries extended their congratulatory messages.

The news agency notes that Prince Karim Aga Khan, the 49th Imam (Spiritual Leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, is renowned for his extensive humanitarian work, primarily through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).  The AKDN, with a strong presence in Asia and Africa, reportedly strives to enhance the quality of life for the Ismaili community and people across diverse societies.  Its initiatives encompass a range of sectors, including education, health, cultural development, and economic sustainability.

The Aga Khan’s leadership and vision have been pivotal in promoting peace, pluralism, and development around the globe.  His efforts are not only recognized by his followers but also by international leaders and organizations, highlighting his commitment to fostering a more harmonious and prosperous world.

As he celebrates his 87th birthday, his followers and associates reflect on his contributions and the impact of his lifelong dedication to humanitarian causes, according to The Khaama Press News Agency.

The Aga Khan’s work reportedly continues to inspire millions, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries and reaffirming his role as a global leader in development and philanthropy.

The AKDN’s mission extends to improving living conditions and opportunities for the poor, irrespective of faith, origin, or gender.  It operates in over 30 countries, employing around 96,000 staff, mostly in developing countries.  The network’s cultural arm, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is known for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture and Historic Cities Programme, and it supports the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University and MIT.  In East Africa, the Aga Khan Foundation mitigates educational and food scarcity, enhancing economic capacity and agricultural practices in rural regions of Kenya and Tanzania.

On this occasion, communities around the world celebrate not only his birth but also his profound legacy, which continues to shape and improve the lives of millions.

In Tajikistan, the AKDN has been active since the country’s independence in 1991, following the collapse of the Soviet Union.  In cooperation with its development partners, the AKDN has enabled social, economic, and cultural development initiatives over the last 30 years to improve the quality of life of the people of Tajikistan.

Several AKDN agencies collaborate to bring the government, private sector and civil society together, establish institutions and carry out programs to help with needs as diverse as banking, e-learning and avalanche prevention.  It covers all regions of Tajikistan and employ over 3,500 people in health care, education, business, finance and cultural activities.