Museveni Eulogises Aga Khan, Hails His Legacy in Uganda
The 49th Aga Khan died earlier this week a the age of 87, leaving deep footprints on Uganda's socioeconomic fabrics where he invested heavily in health and education as well as the mass media
Kampala – President Museveni has paid tribute to the late Shah Karim al-Husayni, the Aga Khan IV, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions left a lasting impact on Uganda and the wider African continent.
The Aga Khan, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, passed away on February 7, 2025, at the age of 87.
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His son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, has been named as his successor, continuing the family’s long-standing leadership of the Ismaili community.
In his reminiscence, Museveni expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Aga Khan, whom he considered a friend of Uganda.
He recounted his earliest memories of the religious leader, dating back to 1957-1958 when he first saw Indian families in Ntungamo displaying portraits of the young Aga Khan following his ascension to leadership.
“I started seeing our four Indian families at Ntungamo hanging pictures of a young man whom they told us was the new ‘King’ (Mukama) of the Indians. We thought he was the King of all Indians,” Museveni recalled.
Beyond his spiritual role, the Aga Khan played a pivotal part in Uganda’s economic and social development. His influence in the country spanned several decades, with investments in key sectors such as media, health, education, and infrastructure.
Institutions like the Aga Khan University and the Aga Khan Hospital in Kampala stand as testaments to his commitment to improving healthcare and higher education in the country.
Museveni also acknowledged the economic contributions of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which remained active in Uganda even during politically turbulent times.
He highlighted the foundation’s return in full force after the NRM came to power, helping to rebuild vital sectors and contributing to Uganda’s modernization.
“I remember the good buildings that the community put up in Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and maybe Nairobi. They were called IPS buildings,” Museveni said, referencing some of the Aga Khan’s landmark projects.
The President lamented the loss of a leader who, at 87, still had much to offer, emphasizing the need to honor his legacy by continuing his work.
He extended his condolences to the Ismaili community and welcomed the new Aga Khan, Prince Rahim, expressing hope that his leadership would sustain the vision of progress and humanitarian service championed by his father.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Museveni said.
