His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has concluded a landmark two-day official visit to Kenya, marking his first trip to East Africa since assuming the role of the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims in February 2025.
Prince Rahim departed the country on August 27 after a series of high-level engagements, which underscored the historic partnership between Kenya and the Ismaili Imamat. He was seen off at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, who was accompanied by Amin Mawji, Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Kenya, and Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President and Vice Chancellor of Aga Khan University.
During his stay, Prince Rahim met President William Ruto at State House, where discussions centered on the long-standing cooperation between the Ismaili Imamat and the Kenyan government. The talks culminated in the signing of an agreement reaffirming the partnership and a Memorandum of Understanding on General Cooperation.
These agreements aim to strengthen collaboration in environmental conservation, climate resilience, urban rehabilitation, and the preservation of cultural heritage. All are aligned with Kenya’s broader development agenda to boost grassroots economic activity, create employment, and enhance livelihoods.
In recognition of his leadership and the transformative contributions of AKDN institutions to Kenya’s progress, President Ruto conferred upon Prince Rahim the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), the nation’s highest civilian honour. The award, announced earlier in March, is reserved for individuals who render distinguished and outstanding services to the nation.
Speaking during the send-off, CS Duale hailed the visit as a reaffirmation of a “historic and enduring partnership” between Kenya and the Ismaili Imamat. He noted the far-reaching impact of the AKDN’s work in health, education, finance, insurance, infrastructure, and culture, which continues to shape Kenya’s development landscape.
The visit also highlighted the over 100-year legacy of the Ismaili community in Kenya. Under Prince Rahim’s leadership, the AKDN is expected to expand its initiatives, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in advancing Kenya’s growth and resilience.
