https://www.dawn.com/news/1344437
We have to be a generous society,' says the Aga Khan on his Diamond Jubilee
Jahanzeb Hussain
Updated July 11, 2017
Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, the 49th Imam of the Shia Ismailis, celebrates 60 years today since he inherited the leadership of his community from his grandfather and became the Aga Khan.
Prince Karim is best known for a life dedicated to social services for some of the most underprivileged communities in Asia and Africa.
He is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), renowned around the globe for its work in providing quality healthcare, education, revitalisation of cultural heritage, safeguarding the environment, and uplifting of marginalised peoples through community and economic development.
As part of the buildup to his Diamond Jubilee, the Aga Khan gave an exclusive interview to a select group of journalists from different countries, including Dawn.
In his introductory comments, the Aga Khan laid out what he calls “the parameters within which religious institutions in the Muslim world can work,” namely that of trying to “improve the quality of life of the people of the community and those amongst them where the community lives, [by] eliminating unfairness, fraud, and giving families the opportunity to think that their future generations can live in an improved society.”
He outlined the need to “use material resources for these purposes which are required by the Muslim faith” and said that, for the Jubilee year, he hopes to lead his community to “identify various resources in the civil society in the countries in which [they] are engaged and support them in their mandate.”
AKDN spends US$ 925 million dollars annually on non-profit social and cultural development activities. It operates more than 200 health care institutions, 2 universities spanning 6 countries, and 200 schools and school improvement programmes in some of the most remote and poorest parts of the developing world.
The Aga Khan went on to say that “we need to accept today that any institution, any country, which has a pocket of weakness, is an institution or a country at risk” and that “we need to concentrate on eliminating the risk and the damage they have done to these countries.”
The leader of the Shia Ismaili community stressed that the basis we should be using to evaluate development initiatives is “public good,” for as long as we do that “we should be on the right side of logic.” In this regard, the Aga Khan was critical of the whole banking system that is “directed toward the notion of profit rather than the notion of social support.”
His Highness the Aga Khan admiring the breath-taking view from Baltit Fort. The conservation of the over 700-years-old Baltit Fort, the pre-eminent landmark monument in Gilgit-Baltistan, and the rehabilitation of the historic core of the Karimabad village in Hunza Valley, were the Aga Khan Historic Cities Programme first major interventions, completed in 1996.
I asked him to address South Asia in particular, to which he replied that the “financial institutions ought to be a great deal more open to social support needs.” For example, “is microcredit doing the job that people hoped it would be doing?” he asked.
“My view is no, it’s not, because microcredit helps certain demographics but it doesn’t affect the whole of the economy of a given country. There are many financial needs which are not addressed by financial institutions today, and I’m talking particularly about the medium-sized enterprises that are definitely, in my view, underfunded.”
Above all, however, the “major threat” facing South Asia and much of the developing world is climate change, which needs to be “looked at with great care to address the particular causes of the situation.” Climate change is the “first issue” the Aga Khan said he would look at especially since he says he’s not “convinced that that’s happening at the present time.”
His Highness the Aga Khan meets with students at the Aga Khan III school (Sultan Mohammed Shah Foundation School) at Karimabad, Pakistan in 1970. - Photo credit : AKDN / Cumber Studios
Addressing climate change and providing access to economic resources have to be part of the plan to alleviate poverty, which has to be the “first priority for South Asia.”
Climate change is directly linked to the “quality of life,” especially “in the developing world” where there are a “number of situations where there’s not sufficient sustenance for ensuring an acceptable quality of life.”
The Aga Khan said that his “sense is that there has been very little global thinking about how we deal with issues of pollution, water availability, issues of unstable earth – all issues that are, in a sense, predictable.”
He said that he has “been more than worried about situations where everybody knew and have known for decades that they were living in high risk and nothing was done about it.”
His Highness the Aga Khan addresses the audience during the Aga Khan University (AKU) Charter acceptance ceremony in Karachi, 1983, one of the Silver Jubilee initiatives. - Photo credit : AKDN / Christopher Little
An equally integral component of the Aga Khan’s mandate is pluralism. He emphasised the fact that the societies where his institutions work are “pluralistic and they have been pluralistic for many, many centuries.” He deplored the various “forces at play which have tended to separate these societies in separate ethnic and religious groups.”
When I inquired as to what role can Islam play in promoting social peace, especially in a region like South Asia, the Aga Khan was unequivocal: “Social ethic is a strong principle in Islam and I think that Muslims would be well advised to respect that as a fundamental ethic of our faith and to live by that, which means that we have to be what I would call an empathetic society, a welcoming society, peaceful society, a generous society.”
His Highness the Aga Khan meets with the inhabitants of northern areas of Pakistan to discuss the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme in Jaglot, near Gilgit, a new experimental rural development institution sponsored by the Aga Khan Foundation, May 1983. - Photo credit : AKDN / Christopher Little
Commenting on the situation of Muslims in the West, the Aga Khan insisted that it’s “absolutely incorrect to try to move Islam out of the context of global monotheism,” since “Islam is an Abrahamic faith, it’s a monotheistic faith and most of the principles of Islam equate with the principle of other major global monotheistic faiths.”
“The world we seek is not a world where difference is erased but where difference can be a powerful force for good, helping us to fashion a new sense of cooperation and coherence in our world and to build together a better life for all.”
He also pointed out that a “large percentage of the immigrants who enter the Western world come from the Muslim world. It’s an issue that needs to be dealt with empathy and care, and where it has been dealt with empathy and care – and I would give Canada as an example – you can see that the results have been welcomed.”
In his final remarks, the 80-year-old avowed that his institutions and partners would keep working to find "solid solutions" to the problems he highlighted. The Diamond Jubilee, he said, is a "remarkable opportunity to come together" to achieve these goals.
Diamond-jubilee in the News
Shia Ismaili Muslims to celebrate 60 years of Aga Khan’s life, work Tuesday
This year, July 11 marks the 60 years of a commitment “to faith, pluralism and improved quality of life for vulnerable societies” of the Aga Khan as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), government bodies and faith community leaders in over 25 countries including Bangladesh will come together on Tuesday to celebrate the day.
The AKDN said there would be a private event marking this historic occasion in conjunction with the global ceremonies.
“Over the past six decades, the Aga Khan has transformed the quality of life for millions of people around the world”.
“In the areas of health, education, cultural revitalization, and economic empowerment, he has worked to inspire excellence and improve living conditions and opportunities in some of the world’s most remote and troubled regions”.
In Islam’s ethical tradition, religious leaders not only interpret the faith but also have a responsibility to help improve the quality of life of their community and the societies among which they live.
For the Aga Khan, this has meant dedicating his life to addressing the concerns of the developing world.
More...
http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2017/07/ ... rk-tuesday
*******
Aga Khan marks 60 years as leader of Ismaili Shiites
CAIRO
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili branch of Shiite Islam, is opening a yearlong jubilee to mark his 60th anniversary leading the community with a call Tuesday for greater respect for pluralism in the Islamic world and action to reduce poverty.
Among Muslim leaders, the Aga Khan holds a unique position. The community he leads as "imam" is not large — around 20 million adherents, compared to the estimates of several hundred million followers of Shiism's main branch, known as the "Twelvers." Sunnis make up the majority of the approximately 1.5 billion Muslims around the world.
But while other Islamic communities have a fragmented leadership, the 80-year-old, Paris-based Aga Khan is accepted across the Nazari Ismaili community as the "imam," or spiritual head, giving him a singular status.
More...
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation- ... 38784.html
This year, July 11 marks the 60 years of a commitment “to faith, pluralism and improved quality of life for vulnerable societies” of the Aga Khan as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), government bodies and faith community leaders in over 25 countries including Bangladesh will come together on Tuesday to celebrate the day.
The AKDN said there would be a private event marking this historic occasion in conjunction with the global ceremonies.
“Over the past six decades, the Aga Khan has transformed the quality of life for millions of people around the world”.
“In the areas of health, education, cultural revitalization, and economic empowerment, he has worked to inspire excellence and improve living conditions and opportunities in some of the world’s most remote and troubled regions”.
In Islam’s ethical tradition, religious leaders not only interpret the faith but also have a responsibility to help improve the quality of life of their community and the societies among which they live.
For the Aga Khan, this has meant dedicating his life to addressing the concerns of the developing world.
More...
http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2017/07/ ... rk-tuesday
*******
Aga Khan marks 60 years as leader of Ismaili Shiites
CAIRO
The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili branch of Shiite Islam, is opening a yearlong jubilee to mark his 60th anniversary leading the community with a call Tuesday for greater respect for pluralism in the Islamic world and action to reduce poverty.
Among Muslim leaders, the Aga Khan holds a unique position. The community he leads as "imam" is not large — around 20 million adherents, compared to the estimates of several hundred million followers of Shiism's main branch, known as the "Twelvers." Sunnis make up the majority of the approximately 1.5 billion Muslims around the world.
But while other Islamic communities have a fragmented leadership, the 80-year-old, Paris-based Aga Khan is accepted across the Nazari Ismaili community as the "imam," or spiritual head, giving him a singular status.
More...
http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation- ... 38784.html
Ismaili community marks leader’s special anniversary
Dar es Salaam — The Ismaili community in Tanzania yesterday commemorated the 60th anniversary of His Highness the Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s ascension to the Ismaili Imamat.
Speaking on the occasion, President of His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Tanzania, Mr Amin Lakhani, said under the leadership of His Highness, The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), worked tirelessly in Tanzania to create various development programmes.
He pointed out that the programmes aimed at harnessing human development, imbibing innovative initiatives and creating sustainable institutions that complemented national development objectives.
“The bridge of understanding and respect that the government has accorded to His Highness and his institutions over the last six decades are indeed indelible touchstones in our belief in the nobility of partnership and pluralism toward a shared aspiration for a better quality of life for all,” he said.
He added: “I hope that the partnership between the Ismaili community and the government, remains an enduring symbol of cooperation, of diverse collaboration, representing an exciting agenda of future relationship of the Imam and this country.”
More..
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/News/Ismail ... index.html
Dar es Salaam — The Ismaili community in Tanzania yesterday commemorated the 60th anniversary of His Highness the Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s ascension to the Ismaili Imamat.
Speaking on the occasion, President of His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Tanzania, Mr Amin Lakhani, said under the leadership of His Highness, The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), worked tirelessly in Tanzania to create various development programmes.
He pointed out that the programmes aimed at harnessing human development, imbibing innovative initiatives and creating sustainable institutions that complemented national development objectives.
“The bridge of understanding and respect that the government has accorded to His Highness and his institutions over the last six decades are indeed indelible touchstones in our belief in the nobility of partnership and pluralism toward a shared aspiration for a better quality of life for all,” he said.
He added: “I hope that the partnership between the Ismaili community and the government, remains an enduring symbol of cooperation, of diverse collaboration, representing an exciting agenda of future relationship of the Imam and this country.”
More..
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/News/Ismail ... index.html
A rare interview with the Aga Khan on poverty, climate change, and demystifying Islam
His Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan, is many things.
“Virtually a one-man state,” as Vanity Fair once put it, he’s the spiritual leader of the world’s 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims and a unique embodiment of the potential for East blending with West. He inherited from his Indian-born grandfather a dynasty that spans the Muslim world, but he is a British citizen, born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard, and lives in a French chateau.
A reported descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, he has dedicated his life to fighting poverty and heads one of the world’s most active development foundations, reaching millions of people in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East each year via the Aga Khan Development Network.
More...
https://qz.com/1025313/a-rare-interview ... ing-islam/
His Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan, is many things.
“Virtually a one-man state,” as Vanity Fair once put it, he’s the spiritual leader of the world’s 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims and a unique embodiment of the potential for East blending with West. He inherited from his Indian-born grandfather a dynasty that spans the Muslim world, but he is a British citizen, born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard, and lives in a French chateau.
A reported descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, he has dedicated his life to fighting poverty and heads one of the world’s most active development foundations, reaching millions of people in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East each year via the Aga Khan Development Network.
More...
https://qz.com/1025313/a-rare-interview ... ing-islam/
http://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/duba ... f-aga-khan
Ismailis celebrate Diamond Jubilee of Aga Khan
Bernd Debusmann Jr. (Chief Reporter)/Dubai
bernd@khaleejtimes.com Filed on July 11, 2017
The event will be marked across the world
Members of the Ismaili Muslim community in the UAE are celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of the Aga Khan, marking his 60th year as the 49th hereditary spiritual leader of the community.
The celebrations - which are being held worldwide - will bring together members of the Ismaili community, as well as partners of the Aga Khan Development network and government and religious leaders across 25 countries. The Diamond Jubilee celebrates the occasion on July 11 in which the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims 60 years ago, at the age of 20.
In Dubai - which also hosts an Ismaili Centre on Oud Metha Road - the Ismaili community has also established the Aga Khan Early Learning Centre, a nursery which takes children between the ages of 12 and 48 months, as well as the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides, which has had a presence in Dubai for over 30 years.
"As a leader of the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides, the spirit of volunteering is central to everything we do. On the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee, we are reminded of that spirit and the lifetime of service which His Highness the Aga Khan has devoted to the community in the UAE and globally around the world," said Raheel Chagani, a Group Scout Leader at the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides. "He once said of volunteers that 'their spirit, generating new ideas, resisting discouragement, and demanding results, animates the heart of ever effective society'."
"I am very happy on this momentous occasion to be part of the celebrations which are a milestone for the Ismaili Muslim Community," he added.
Today, the Aga Khan leaders a community of 15 million Ismaili Muslims spread across South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America and the Far East.
He's also the Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the largest development organisations in the world, with 80,000 staff operating in more than 30 countries.
Annually, the AKDN spends $925 million on non-profit social and cultural development activities, and operates over 200 health care institutions, two universities, and 200 schools and school improvement programmes in various parts of the globe. Additionally, the AKDN operates over 90 project companies in post-conflict and transitional economies, ranging from a large-scale hydropower project in Uganda to a mobile phone company in Afghanistan, which collectively generate more than $4.1 billion revenues.
A number of social, cultural and economic projects - designed to alleviate poverty and increase access to finance for education, health, housing, early childhood development and infrastructure in developing countries - are expected to be launched on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee.
Ismailis celebrate Diamond Jubilee of Aga Khan
Bernd Debusmann Jr. (Chief Reporter)/Dubai
bernd@khaleejtimes.com Filed on July 11, 2017
The event will be marked across the world
Members of the Ismaili Muslim community in the UAE are celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of the Aga Khan, marking his 60th year as the 49th hereditary spiritual leader of the community.
The celebrations - which are being held worldwide - will bring together members of the Ismaili community, as well as partners of the Aga Khan Development network and government and religious leaders across 25 countries. The Diamond Jubilee celebrates the occasion on July 11 in which the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims 60 years ago, at the age of 20.
In Dubai - which also hosts an Ismaili Centre on Oud Metha Road - the Ismaili community has also established the Aga Khan Early Learning Centre, a nursery which takes children between the ages of 12 and 48 months, as well as the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides, which has had a presence in Dubai for over 30 years.
"As a leader of the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides, the spirit of volunteering is central to everything we do. On the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee, we are reminded of that spirit and the lifetime of service which His Highness the Aga Khan has devoted to the community in the UAE and globally around the world," said Raheel Chagani, a Group Scout Leader at the Aga Khan Scouts and Guides. "He once said of volunteers that 'their spirit, generating new ideas, resisting discouragement, and demanding results, animates the heart of ever effective society'."
"I am very happy on this momentous occasion to be part of the celebrations which are a milestone for the Ismaili Muslim Community," he added.
Today, the Aga Khan leaders a community of 15 million Ismaili Muslims spread across South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America and the Far East.
He's also the Founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the largest development organisations in the world, with 80,000 staff operating in more than 30 countries.
Annually, the AKDN spends $925 million on non-profit social and cultural development activities, and operates over 200 health care institutions, two universities, and 200 schools and school improvement programmes in various parts of the globe. Additionally, the AKDN operates over 90 project companies in post-conflict and transitional economies, ranging from a large-scale hydropower project in Uganda to a mobile phone company in Afghanistan, which collectively generate more than $4.1 billion revenues.
A number of social, cultural and economic projects - designed to alleviate poverty and increase access to finance for education, health, housing, early childhood development and infrastructure in developing countries - are expected to be launched on the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee.
https://www.dawn.com/news/1344481
Aga Khan defines role of Islamic bodies
Jahanzeb HussainJuly 11, 2017
RELIGIOUS institutions in the Islamic world should try to improve the quality of life of Muslims as well as of other groups with whom they live, Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, the 49th Imam of the Ismaili Shias, said in an interview with Dawn on the eve of diamond jubilee celebrations of his inheritance of the leadership of the community.
He laid out “the parameters within which religious institutions in the Muslim world can work”, outlining the need to “use material resources for the fulfillment of these objectives obligated by the Muslim faith”.
For the jubilee year, the Aga Khan said he hoped to lead his community to “identify various resources in the civil society in the countries in which [they] are engaged and support them in their mandate.”
He expanded on the mandate and explained that the goal was to continue working towards “improving quality of life, eliminating unfairness, fraud, and giving families the opportunity to think that their future generations can live in an improved society.”
Advertisement
“We need to accept today that any institution, any country, which has a pocket of weakness, is an institution or a country at risk”, the Aga Khan observed, adding that “we need to concentrate on eliminating the risk and the damage they have done to these countries”.
He stressed that the basis we should be using to evaluate development initiatives is “public good”, for as long as we do that “we should be on the right side of logic.”
In this regard, the Aga Khan was critical of the whole banking system that is “directed towards the notion of profit rather than the notion of social support.”
Speaking about South Asia, he said that the “financial institutions ought to be a great deal more open to social support needs.” For example, “is micro credit doing the job that people hoped it would be doing?” he asked.
vg“My view is no, it’s not, because micro credit helps certain demographics but it doesn’t affect the whole of the economy of a given country.”
Above all, however, the “major threat” facing South Asia and much of the developing world is climate change, which needs to be “looked at with great care to address the particular causes of the situation.” Addressing climate change and providing access to economic resources have to be part of the plan to alleviate poverty, which has to be the “first priority for South Asia.”
Climate change is directly linked to the “quality of life,” especially “in the developing world” where there are a “number of situations where there’s not sufficient sustenance for ensuring an acceptable quality of life.”
The Aga Khan said that his “sense is that there has been very little global thinking about how we deal with issues of pollution, water availability, issues of unstable earth — all issues that are, in a sense, predictable.”
He said that he has “been more than worried about situations where everybody, local populations, knew and have known for decades that they were living in high risk, but nothing was done about it.”
An equally integral component of the Aga Khan’s mandate is pluralism. He emphasised the fact that the societies where his institutions work are “pluralistic and they have been pluralistic for many, many centuries.”
He deplored the various “forces at play which have tended to separate these societies in separate ethnic and religious groups.”
Asked as to what role can Islam play in promoting social peace, especially in a region like South Asia, the Aga Khan was unequivocal: “Social ethic is a strong principle in Islam and I think that Muslims would be well advised to respect that as a fundamental ethic of our faith and to live by that, which means that we have to be what I would call an empathetic society, a welcoming society, peaceful society, a generous society.”
Commenting on the situation of Muslims in the West, the Aga Khan advised that it’s “absolutely incorrect to try to move Islam out of the context of global monotheism,” since “Islam is an Abrahamic faith, it’s a monotheistic faith and most of the principles of Islam equate with the principle of other major global monotheistic faiths.”
In his final remarks, the 80-year-old vowed that his institutions and partners would keep working to find “solid solutions” to the problems he highlighted. The diamond jubilee, he said, is a “remarkable opportunity to come together” to achieve these goals.
Published in Dawn, July 11th, 2017
Aga Khan defines role of Islamic bodies
Jahanzeb HussainJuly 11, 2017
RELIGIOUS institutions in the Islamic world should try to improve the quality of life of Muslims as well as of other groups with whom they live, Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, the 49th Imam of the Ismaili Shias, said in an interview with Dawn on the eve of diamond jubilee celebrations of his inheritance of the leadership of the community.
He laid out “the parameters within which religious institutions in the Muslim world can work”, outlining the need to “use material resources for the fulfillment of these objectives obligated by the Muslim faith”.
For the jubilee year, the Aga Khan said he hoped to lead his community to “identify various resources in the civil society in the countries in which [they] are engaged and support them in their mandate.”
He expanded on the mandate and explained that the goal was to continue working towards “improving quality of life, eliminating unfairness, fraud, and giving families the opportunity to think that their future generations can live in an improved society.”
Advertisement
“We need to accept today that any institution, any country, which has a pocket of weakness, is an institution or a country at risk”, the Aga Khan observed, adding that “we need to concentrate on eliminating the risk and the damage they have done to these countries”.
He stressed that the basis we should be using to evaluate development initiatives is “public good”, for as long as we do that “we should be on the right side of logic.”
In this regard, the Aga Khan was critical of the whole banking system that is “directed towards the notion of profit rather than the notion of social support.”
Speaking about South Asia, he said that the “financial institutions ought to be a great deal more open to social support needs.” For example, “is micro credit doing the job that people hoped it would be doing?” he asked.
vg“My view is no, it’s not, because micro credit helps certain demographics but it doesn’t affect the whole of the economy of a given country.”
Above all, however, the “major threat” facing South Asia and much of the developing world is climate change, which needs to be “looked at with great care to address the particular causes of the situation.” Addressing climate change and providing access to economic resources have to be part of the plan to alleviate poverty, which has to be the “first priority for South Asia.”
Climate change is directly linked to the “quality of life,” especially “in the developing world” where there are a “number of situations where there’s not sufficient sustenance for ensuring an acceptable quality of life.”
The Aga Khan said that his “sense is that there has been very little global thinking about how we deal with issues of pollution, water availability, issues of unstable earth — all issues that are, in a sense, predictable.”
He said that he has “been more than worried about situations where everybody, local populations, knew and have known for decades that they were living in high risk, but nothing was done about it.”
An equally integral component of the Aga Khan’s mandate is pluralism. He emphasised the fact that the societies where his institutions work are “pluralistic and they have been pluralistic for many, many centuries.”
He deplored the various “forces at play which have tended to separate these societies in separate ethnic and religious groups.”
Asked as to what role can Islam play in promoting social peace, especially in a region like South Asia, the Aga Khan was unequivocal: “Social ethic is a strong principle in Islam and I think that Muslims would be well advised to respect that as a fundamental ethic of our faith and to live by that, which means that we have to be what I would call an empathetic society, a welcoming society, peaceful society, a generous society.”
Commenting on the situation of Muslims in the West, the Aga Khan advised that it’s “absolutely incorrect to try to move Islam out of the context of global monotheism,” since “Islam is an Abrahamic faith, it’s a monotheistic faith and most of the principles of Islam equate with the principle of other major global monotheistic faiths.”
In his final remarks, the 80-year-old vowed that his institutions and partners would keep working to find “solid solutions” to the problems he highlighted. The diamond jubilee, he said, is a “remarkable opportunity to come together” to achieve these goals.
Published in Dawn, July 11th, 2017
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/ ... -1.4201799
Construction of Aga Khan Garden reaches halfway mark
The $25-million garden will be the most northerly Islamic garden in the world
By Nola Keeler, CBC News Posted: Jul 13, 2017
It will be the most northerly Islamic garden in the world.
On Wednesday, media were given a sneak peek at the Aga Khan Garden at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden near Devon.
The 5½-hectare garden, which will hold more than 20,000 plants, is now halfway to completion.
The project was funded by a $25-million gift from the Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims, including 6,000 in Edmonton.
The Aga Khan's ties to Canada and Alberta run deep. He was named an honorary Canadian in 2009 and received an honorary doctorate from the University of Alberta the same year.
Aga Khan garden
Artist's rendering of waterfalls at the Aga Khan garden. (University of Alberta)
"The goal is to create a 21st-century Islamic garden that feels at home in Edmonton," said Nathan Foley, architect with Nelson Byrd Wolz, the U.S. architects designing the garden.
"The vast majority of the plants going into the garden are native or regional plants, which is really important for us telling the story of this place and this garden and highlighting the local flora," he said.
The design will include a fountain, intricate granite and stone work, and an amphitheatre.
Aga Khan garden under construction
The Aga Khan garden under construction. (CBC)
"This has taken years of design and engineering," said Lee Foote, director of the U of A's botanic garden.
The garden is a gift to all Canadians, Foote said. He expects the addition of the garden will more than double attendance at the 240-acre University of Alberta Botanic Garden in two years.
The project is expected to be completed by July 2018.
Construction of Aga Khan Garden reaches halfway mark
The $25-million garden will be the most northerly Islamic garden in the world
By Nola Keeler, CBC News Posted: Jul 13, 2017
It will be the most northerly Islamic garden in the world.
On Wednesday, media were given a sneak peek at the Aga Khan Garden at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden near Devon.
The 5½-hectare garden, which will hold more than 20,000 plants, is now halfway to completion.
The project was funded by a $25-million gift from the Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the world's 15 million Ismaili Muslims, including 6,000 in Edmonton.
The Aga Khan's ties to Canada and Alberta run deep. He was named an honorary Canadian in 2009 and received an honorary doctorate from the University of Alberta the same year.
Aga Khan garden
Artist's rendering of waterfalls at the Aga Khan garden. (University of Alberta)
"The goal is to create a 21st-century Islamic garden that feels at home in Edmonton," said Nathan Foley, architect with Nelson Byrd Wolz, the U.S. architects designing the garden.
"The vast majority of the plants going into the garden are native or regional plants, which is really important for us telling the story of this place and this garden and highlighting the local flora," he said.
The design will include a fountain, intricate granite and stone work, and an amphitheatre.
Aga Khan garden under construction
The Aga Khan garden under construction. (CBC)
"This has taken years of design and engineering," said Lee Foote, director of the U of A's botanic garden.
The garden is a gift to all Canadians, Foote said. He expects the addition of the garden will more than double attendance at the 240-acre University of Alberta Botanic Garden in two years.
The project is expected to be completed by July 2018.
http://www.gatewayhouse.in/bombay-home-to-aga-khans/
3 July 2017, Gateway House
When Bombay was home to the Aga Khans
The Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim al-Husayni, the religious head of of the Ismaili Shia Imamat, celebrated the diamond jubilee year of his leadership earlier this week with the launch of many development projects. What is not very well known is that Bombay was a centre for the consolidation of the community and its religious leaders’ influence
BY Sifra Lentin
Adjunct Fellow, Bombay History Studies
Philanthropy has always flowered in Bombay, and the Ismailis—there are 15 million of them globally – owing allegiance to His Excellency Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim al-Husayni, practise it diligently, giving unobtrusively of their time and talent as and when sought by their leader. What is not widely known is that it was in 19th-century Bombay that the Aga Khans emerged as public figures and leaders of a community, dispersed across West and Central Asia, the subcontinent and East Africa.
His Highness Aga Khan Adressing in Central Asia
H.E. Aga Khan IV addressing Ismailis in Central Asia. (Photo Courtesy: Zahur Ramji)
This is the diamond jubilee year of His Excellency Aga Khan IV – anointed the 49th Imam of the Ismailis by his grandfather Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III—who, on July 11, launched numerous non-denominational development projects, all with a primary focus on poverty alleviation, to mark the occasion. This is work that has already won him much appreciation.
These projects will, as always, combine astutely a business model–the Prince is an alumnus of Harvard University – with philanthropy,[ii] directed both at their own people and the communities in whose midst they live. This approach has worked particularly well both in multicultural, pluralistic societies, like India and Canada, but also in Pakistan and Afghanistan, where the Ismailis are regarded a peace loving community, integrating seamlessly into society, while also giving back to it.
The edifice that exists today sprang from certain foundational events in 19th-century Bombay, which effectively legalised the hereditary temporal and spiritual power of the Aga Khan. The first Ismaili Rule Book[iii] came about in 1905. Community institutions were established. This period also saw the beginning of an administrative structure that is today known as the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). This is an umbrella organisation for the Aga Khan’s non-profit work, which is funded by businesses, such as hotels and airlines that it also runs. This is the largest private development organisation in the world, employing 80,000 people, and disbursing $925 million annually.[iv]
Aga Khan I comes to Bombay
According to historians[v], Hasan ‘Ali Shah, the 46th Imam and the first Aga Khan (an honorific bestowed on him by the Persian emperor, Fath Ali Shah), who settled in Bombay city in 1848, was the first Ismaili Imam to set foot in the Indian subcontinent. His arrival marked the beginning of the modern period in the community’s history. Prior to the 1800s, the Ismaili Shia Imams were based in Persia[vi] and had limited contact with the Ismaili communities that were scattered across Central Asia and Afghanistan – where they were concentrated along the Silk Road – the Middle East, and South Asia. With the Imamat shifting from the province of Kirman (Iran)[vii] to Bombay, the Ismaili Imam came into full public view, his presence having an invigorating effect on local Khoja Ismailis and many distant communities from Central Asia, who sent missions to the city to meet him.[viii]
According to historian Zulfikar Hirji[ix], many of the Ismaili communities on the Indian subcontinent (mostly in Sindh, Kutch and Saurashtra) adopted Ismailism sometime between the 14th and 15th centuries through the efforts of a succession of Ismaili pirs (missionary-saints) who had travelled here. “Upon their conversion the appellation Khoja was bestowed on some converts, the term being a Gujarati transposition of the Persian term Khwaja, meaning ‘lord and master’. Until the 19th century, these convert communities practised their faith in a dissimulated manner. Hence their Ismailism (religious beliefs and practices) displayed a complex interface with other traditions,” he writes.
Gathering a dispersed flock on the subcontinent and reforming their social institutions and religious practices was not easy. The authority of the Ismaili Imam was challenged in three cases that were adjudicated by the Bombay High Court. The first case of 1847[x] concerned female rights of inheritance of property, and whether, in the case of the Ismailis, it was governed by customary practices or the Sharia (Mohammedan law). In the Great Khoja Case (1851), a reform group (Barbhais or 12 brethrens) challenged the authority of the Aga Khan. But it was in the Aga Khan Case (1866) that the Ismaili Imam’s authority over British Indian Ismailis was legally delineated—and resulted in a schism within the community, with a breakaway faction being formed. This began a period of consolidation.
In Bombay, the oldest and chief jamaatkhana (congregational hall) of the Ismailis is Darkhana[xi] on Samuel Street, in the Dongri area, where most of the community originally settled. This is a grand structure, complete with a stately clock tower. It was during Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah’s leadership (1885-1957) that his travels through the subcontinent resulted in many jamaatkhanas being set up. The first Aga Khan School also opened in 1905 in Mundra (Kutch). [xii]
India Jamatkhana
The oldest and chief jamaatkhana of the Ismailis in Mumbai, is Darkhana on Samuel Street (Dongri area)
What is noteworthy during this period is his outreach to communities settled in East Africa, largely Kutchi-speaking Khoja Ismaili families, whose early pioneers had immigrated in the early 1820s much before Aga Khan I settled in Bombay.
The community’s first rule book, titled “The Rule Book of the Khoja Shia Imami Ismaili Council: Part 1&2, by Hussein Chapkhano” was instated for the local community by Aga Khan III in 1905, in Zanzibar.[xiii] It was here too that the first Supreme Council to regulate community life was set up.[xiv] Both the rule book and council governance are features of Ismaili community organisations worldwide. It was in Kisumu (Kenya) though, where the first jamaatkhana in Africa was inaugurated the same year. Well known Khoja merchant, Seth Allidina Visram, who made his fortune, building shops at every major station along the 580-mile long Uganda Railway Line, funded it.
Imamat’s shift from Bombay
After almost a century of the Imamat being headquartered in Bombay, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III took up residence in Switzerland, a neutral country, during the Second World War (1939-45). It was also a period when political turbulence due to the Indian nationalist movement and the inevitability of Partition, loomed over India. The seat of the Ismaili Imamat has been located in different parts of the world during its 1400-year-old existence.[xv] While its history in Bombay marked the beginning of its modernisation, these Geneva years, largely under the stewardship of the present Aga Khan IV, were marked by global outreach and major growth in its development work.
The Imamat has now indicated that the headquarters may shift from Geneva to Portugal: the Portuguese government granted it special status in 2015 to operate globally from its territory.[xvi]
The Aga Khan and his followers have worked selflessly across borders and communities – and his diamond jubilee celebrations will have reverberations across them.
Sifra Lentin is the Bombay History Fellow at Gateway House.
This article was exclusively written for Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations. You can read more exclusive content here.
For interview requests with the author, or for permission to republish, please contact outreach@gatewayhouse.in.
© Copyright 2017 Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized copying or reproduction is strictly prohibited.
References
[1] According to an Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) press release, Diamond Jubilee priorities include the promotion of early childhood and primary education, strengthening institutions, and invigorating civil society.
Aga Khan Development Network, <www.akdn.org/press-release/update-aga-k ... ralism-and>, (Accessed on 13 July 2017)
[2] The Aga Khan does not consider his work as philanthropy but as his spiritual mandate. In the understanding of Imamat (office of Imam), the Imam (in this context the Aga Khan) is responsible for the improvement of the quality of life of his followers and also those among who they live and are in need.
[3] The historic meaning of Rule Book (Constitution) is that it outlines the spiritual relationship between the Imam and his followers, which is different from an Ismaili’s secular loyalty to the country in which he lives.
Today, the Global Constitution (rule book) additionally regulates the relationship between various community institutions globally inter se, and their relationship with the Aga Khan Development Network (the umbrella organization). This Constitution operates under the law of each country and also outlines the relationship of AKDN with various government institutions.
[4] Aga Khan Development Network, Update—Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of a commitment to faith, pluralism and improved quality of life (Geneva, AKDN, 2017)
www.akdn.org/press-release/update-aga-k ... ralism-and (Accessed on July 12, 2017)
[5] Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies, 2011), p. 7.
[6] Prior to 1935, Iran was known as Persia. At the time Aga Khan I immigrated to Bombay, it was Iran.
[7] The Institute of Ismaili Studies, The Ismaili Imamat History (UK, IIS, 6 July 2015)
<iis.ac.uk/about-us/his-highness-aga-khan/ismaili-imamat-history> (Accessed on 13 July 2017)
[8] Ibid
[9] Hirji, Zulfikar, “The Socio-Legal Formation of the Nizari Ismailis of East Africa, 1800–1950”, Chapter 6 (Part 2), from Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies, 2011), p. 130.
[10] The 1847 case was actually two cases concerning whether customary practices or the Sharia law was applicable for succession (inheritance) in the case of the Ismailis. The Aga Khan was not party to the suits but was represented.
[11] The present building was inaugurated by H.E. Aga Khan III on January 22, 1915. It was built by Megji Mulji Mukhi. However, it appears that there existed an older jamaatkhana on this site. Heritage Society: Ismaili. Net, 74. Meghji Mulji, Mukhi <htpps://ismaili.net/heritage/node/20736> (Accessed on 11 July 2017.)
[12] The Aga Khan School, Mundra < www.agakhanschools.org/India/AKSM/Index > (Accessed on July 11, 2017)
[13] Hirji, Zulfikar, “The Socio-Legal Formation of the Nizari Ismailis of East Africa, 1800–1950”, Chapter 6 (Part 2), from Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies 2011), p.146.
[14] Today, the Ismailis worldwide have national councils for each country, and depending on the size of the community,the number of administrative layers are determined. In India, the National Council has three administrative layers and covers the regions of Western India, Southern India, North Eastern Gujarat, Northern Saurashtra, Southern Saurashtra, and Central & Eastern India.
[15] The Ismaili, Imamat day Mubarak https://the.ismaili/imamat-day-mubarak-1 (Accessed on July 13, 2017)
[16] Aga Khan Development Network, Historic agreement establishes Global Seat of Ismaili Imamat in Portugal <www.akdn.org/event/historic-agreement-e ... t-portugal> (Accessed on 12 July 2017)
3 July 2017, Gateway House
When Bombay was home to the Aga Khans
The Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim al-Husayni, the religious head of of the Ismaili Shia Imamat, celebrated the diamond jubilee year of his leadership earlier this week with the launch of many development projects. What is not very well known is that Bombay was a centre for the consolidation of the community and its religious leaders’ influence
BY Sifra Lentin
Adjunct Fellow, Bombay History Studies
Philanthropy has always flowered in Bombay, and the Ismailis—there are 15 million of them globally – owing allegiance to His Excellency Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim al-Husayni, practise it diligently, giving unobtrusively of their time and talent as and when sought by their leader. What is not widely known is that it was in 19th-century Bombay that the Aga Khans emerged as public figures and leaders of a community, dispersed across West and Central Asia, the subcontinent and East Africa.
His Highness Aga Khan Adressing in Central Asia
H.E. Aga Khan IV addressing Ismailis in Central Asia. (Photo Courtesy: Zahur Ramji)
This is the diamond jubilee year of His Excellency Aga Khan IV – anointed the 49th Imam of the Ismailis by his grandfather Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III—who, on July 11, launched numerous non-denominational development projects, all with a primary focus on poverty alleviation, to mark the occasion. This is work that has already won him much appreciation.
These projects will, as always, combine astutely a business model–the Prince is an alumnus of Harvard University – with philanthropy,[ii] directed both at their own people and the communities in whose midst they live. This approach has worked particularly well both in multicultural, pluralistic societies, like India and Canada, but also in Pakistan and Afghanistan, where the Ismailis are regarded a peace loving community, integrating seamlessly into society, while also giving back to it.
The edifice that exists today sprang from certain foundational events in 19th-century Bombay, which effectively legalised the hereditary temporal and spiritual power of the Aga Khan. The first Ismaili Rule Book[iii] came about in 1905. Community institutions were established. This period also saw the beginning of an administrative structure that is today known as the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). This is an umbrella organisation for the Aga Khan’s non-profit work, which is funded by businesses, such as hotels and airlines that it also runs. This is the largest private development organisation in the world, employing 80,000 people, and disbursing $925 million annually.[iv]
Aga Khan I comes to Bombay
According to historians[v], Hasan ‘Ali Shah, the 46th Imam and the first Aga Khan (an honorific bestowed on him by the Persian emperor, Fath Ali Shah), who settled in Bombay city in 1848, was the first Ismaili Imam to set foot in the Indian subcontinent. His arrival marked the beginning of the modern period in the community’s history. Prior to the 1800s, the Ismaili Shia Imams were based in Persia[vi] and had limited contact with the Ismaili communities that were scattered across Central Asia and Afghanistan – where they were concentrated along the Silk Road – the Middle East, and South Asia. With the Imamat shifting from the province of Kirman (Iran)[vii] to Bombay, the Ismaili Imam came into full public view, his presence having an invigorating effect on local Khoja Ismailis and many distant communities from Central Asia, who sent missions to the city to meet him.[viii]
According to historian Zulfikar Hirji[ix], many of the Ismaili communities on the Indian subcontinent (mostly in Sindh, Kutch and Saurashtra) adopted Ismailism sometime between the 14th and 15th centuries through the efforts of a succession of Ismaili pirs (missionary-saints) who had travelled here. “Upon their conversion the appellation Khoja was bestowed on some converts, the term being a Gujarati transposition of the Persian term Khwaja, meaning ‘lord and master’. Until the 19th century, these convert communities practised their faith in a dissimulated manner. Hence their Ismailism (religious beliefs and practices) displayed a complex interface with other traditions,” he writes.
Gathering a dispersed flock on the subcontinent and reforming their social institutions and religious practices was not easy. The authority of the Ismaili Imam was challenged in three cases that were adjudicated by the Bombay High Court. The first case of 1847[x] concerned female rights of inheritance of property, and whether, in the case of the Ismailis, it was governed by customary practices or the Sharia (Mohammedan law). In the Great Khoja Case (1851), a reform group (Barbhais or 12 brethrens) challenged the authority of the Aga Khan. But it was in the Aga Khan Case (1866) that the Ismaili Imam’s authority over British Indian Ismailis was legally delineated—and resulted in a schism within the community, with a breakaway faction being formed. This began a period of consolidation.
In Bombay, the oldest and chief jamaatkhana (congregational hall) of the Ismailis is Darkhana[xi] on Samuel Street, in the Dongri area, where most of the community originally settled. This is a grand structure, complete with a stately clock tower. It was during Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah’s leadership (1885-1957) that his travels through the subcontinent resulted in many jamaatkhanas being set up. The first Aga Khan School also opened in 1905 in Mundra (Kutch). [xii]
India Jamatkhana
The oldest and chief jamaatkhana of the Ismailis in Mumbai, is Darkhana on Samuel Street (Dongri area)
What is noteworthy during this period is his outreach to communities settled in East Africa, largely Kutchi-speaking Khoja Ismaili families, whose early pioneers had immigrated in the early 1820s much before Aga Khan I settled in Bombay.
The community’s first rule book, titled “The Rule Book of the Khoja Shia Imami Ismaili Council: Part 1&2, by Hussein Chapkhano” was instated for the local community by Aga Khan III in 1905, in Zanzibar.[xiii] It was here too that the first Supreme Council to regulate community life was set up.[xiv] Both the rule book and council governance are features of Ismaili community organisations worldwide. It was in Kisumu (Kenya) though, where the first jamaatkhana in Africa was inaugurated the same year. Well known Khoja merchant, Seth Allidina Visram, who made his fortune, building shops at every major station along the 580-mile long Uganda Railway Line, funded it.
Imamat’s shift from Bombay
After almost a century of the Imamat being headquartered in Bombay, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III took up residence in Switzerland, a neutral country, during the Second World War (1939-45). It was also a period when political turbulence due to the Indian nationalist movement and the inevitability of Partition, loomed over India. The seat of the Ismaili Imamat has been located in different parts of the world during its 1400-year-old existence.[xv] While its history in Bombay marked the beginning of its modernisation, these Geneva years, largely under the stewardship of the present Aga Khan IV, were marked by global outreach and major growth in its development work.
The Imamat has now indicated that the headquarters may shift from Geneva to Portugal: the Portuguese government granted it special status in 2015 to operate globally from its territory.[xvi]
The Aga Khan and his followers have worked selflessly across borders and communities – and his diamond jubilee celebrations will have reverberations across them.
Sifra Lentin is the Bombay History Fellow at Gateway House.
This article was exclusively written for Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations. You can read more exclusive content here.
For interview requests with the author, or for permission to republish, please contact outreach@gatewayhouse.in.
© Copyright 2017 Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized copying or reproduction is strictly prohibited.
References
[1] According to an Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) press release, Diamond Jubilee priorities include the promotion of early childhood and primary education, strengthening institutions, and invigorating civil society.
Aga Khan Development Network, <www.akdn.org/press-release/update-aga-k ... ralism-and>, (Accessed on 13 July 2017)
[2] The Aga Khan does not consider his work as philanthropy but as his spiritual mandate. In the understanding of Imamat (office of Imam), the Imam (in this context the Aga Khan) is responsible for the improvement of the quality of life of his followers and also those among who they live and are in need.
[3] The historic meaning of Rule Book (Constitution) is that it outlines the spiritual relationship between the Imam and his followers, which is different from an Ismaili’s secular loyalty to the country in which he lives.
Today, the Global Constitution (rule book) additionally regulates the relationship between various community institutions globally inter se, and their relationship with the Aga Khan Development Network (the umbrella organization). This Constitution operates under the law of each country and also outlines the relationship of AKDN with various government institutions.
[4] Aga Khan Development Network, Update—Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of a commitment to faith, pluralism and improved quality of life (Geneva, AKDN, 2017)
www.akdn.org/press-release/update-aga-k ... ralism-and (Accessed on July 12, 2017)
[5] Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies, 2011), p. 7.
[6] Prior to 1935, Iran was known as Persia. At the time Aga Khan I immigrated to Bombay, it was Iran.
[7] The Institute of Ismaili Studies, The Ismaili Imamat History (UK, IIS, 6 July 2015)
<iis.ac.uk/about-us/his-highness-aga-khan/ismaili-imamat-history> (Accessed on 13 July 2017)
[8] Ibid
[9] Hirji, Zulfikar, “The Socio-Legal Formation of the Nizari Ismailis of East Africa, 1800–1950”, Chapter 6 (Part 2), from Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies, 2011), p. 130.
[10] The 1847 case was actually two cases concerning whether customary practices or the Sharia law was applicable for succession (inheritance) in the case of the Ismailis. The Aga Khan was not party to the suits but was represented.
[11] The present building was inaugurated by H.E. Aga Khan III on January 22, 1915. It was built by Megji Mulji Mukhi. However, it appears that there existed an older jamaatkhana on this site. Heritage Society: Ismaili. Net, 74. Meghji Mulji, Mukhi <htpps://ismaili.net/heritage/node/20736> (Accessed on 11 July 2017.)
[12] The Aga Khan School, Mundra < www.agakhanschools.org/India/AKSM/Index > (Accessed on July 11, 2017)
[13] Hirji, Zulfikar, “The Socio-Legal Formation of the Nizari Ismailis of East Africa, 1800–1950”, Chapter 6 (Part 2), from Daftary, Farhad, Ed., A Modern History of the Ismailis : continuity and change in a Muslim community(London, I.B. Tauris Publishers in association with The Institute of Ismaili Studies 2011), p.146.
[14] Today, the Ismailis worldwide have national councils for each country, and depending on the size of the community,the number of administrative layers are determined. In India, the National Council has three administrative layers and covers the regions of Western India, Southern India, North Eastern Gujarat, Northern Saurashtra, Southern Saurashtra, and Central & Eastern India.
[15] The Ismaili, Imamat day Mubarak https://the.ismaili/imamat-day-mubarak-1 (Accessed on July 13, 2017)
[16] Aga Khan Development Network, Historic agreement establishes Global Seat of Ismaili Imamat in Portugal <www.akdn.org/event/historic-agreement-e ... t-portugal> (Accessed on 12 July 2017)
http://abc13.com/religion/aga-khan-mark ... r/2206159/
His Highness the Aga Khan's Diamond Jubilee marks a commitment to improve quality of life
Wednesday, July 12, 2017 07:01AM
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) --
His Highness the Aga Khan's Diamond Jubilee marks his 60th anniversary as the Imam, the spiritual leader, of the Shia Ismaili Muslims around the world.
Celebrations will bring together the global Ismaili community, partners of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and government and faith community leaders in over 25 countries. The Diamond Jubilee celebrates the occasion on July 11 in which the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims 60 years ago, at the age of 20.
Tuesday begins a year of redoubling the Aga Khan's commitment to improve the quality of life of people around the world. His Highness has improved the living conditions for millions of people worldwide over the last six decades in the areas of health, education, cultural revitalization and economic empowerment.
Throughout the yearlong jubilee, the Aga Khan will travel to countries where the AKDN operates to launch new programs that will help alleviate poverty, increase access to finance for education, health, early childhood development, among others.
EMBED More News Videos
<iframe width="476" height="267" src="http://abc13.com/video/embed/?pid=2206241" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Aga Khan marks 60 years as leader of Ismaili Muslims.
"The world we seek is not a world where difference is erased but where difference can be a powerful force for good, helping us to fashion a new sense of cooperation and coherence in our world and to build together a better life for all," he said.
Houstonians began celebrating during the days leading up to the Diamond Jubilee and will partake in a religious ceremony Tuesday. There was a private event for His Highness and the leaders of the Ismaili community, making a historic occasion.
"During the Jubilee year and in the future, poverty alleviation will continue to be a primary area of focus for my Jamat and all the AKDN institutions," said the Aga Khan in the address to the global Ismaili community.
The Tolerance Sculptures along Buffalo Bayou Park and Allen Parkway are a visible gift Houston has received from the Aga Khan. The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center is also a well-recognized venue for civic, cultural and educational programming. Additionally, the Ismaili community works with a variety of programs, including the Houston Food Bank, Citizenship Month, Blue Bonnet Project and Compassion.
His Highness the Aga Khan's Diamond Jubilee marks a commitment to improve quality of life
Wednesday, July 12, 2017 07:01AM
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) --
His Highness the Aga Khan's Diamond Jubilee marks his 60th anniversary as the Imam, the spiritual leader, of the Shia Ismaili Muslims around the world.
Celebrations will bring together the global Ismaili community, partners of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and government and faith community leaders in over 25 countries. The Diamond Jubilee celebrates the occasion on July 11 in which the Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims 60 years ago, at the age of 20.
Tuesday begins a year of redoubling the Aga Khan's commitment to improve the quality of life of people around the world. His Highness has improved the living conditions for millions of people worldwide over the last six decades in the areas of health, education, cultural revitalization and economic empowerment.
Throughout the yearlong jubilee, the Aga Khan will travel to countries where the AKDN operates to launch new programs that will help alleviate poverty, increase access to finance for education, health, early childhood development, among others.
EMBED More News Videos
<iframe width="476" height="267" src="http://abc13.com/video/embed/?pid=2206241" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Aga Khan marks 60 years as leader of Ismaili Muslims.
"The world we seek is not a world where difference is erased but where difference can be a powerful force for good, helping us to fashion a new sense of cooperation and coherence in our world and to build together a better life for all," he said.
Houstonians began celebrating during the days leading up to the Diamond Jubilee and will partake in a religious ceremony Tuesday. There was a private event for His Highness and the leaders of the Ismaili community, making a historic occasion.
"During the Jubilee year and in the future, poverty alleviation will continue to be a primary area of focus for my Jamat and all the AKDN institutions," said the Aga Khan in the address to the global Ismaili community.
The Tolerance Sculptures along Buffalo Bayou Park and Allen Parkway are a visible gift Houston has received from the Aga Khan. The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center is also a well-recognized venue for civic, cultural and educational programming. Additionally, the Ismaili community works with a variety of programs, including the Houston Food Bank, Citizenship Month, Blue Bonnet Project and Compassion.
http://www.rtl.be/info/monde/internatio ... 34896.aspx
http://www.lepoint.fr/monde/l-aga-khan- ... 283_24.php
L'Aga Khan fête son jubilé de diamant guidé par l'"éthique sociale" au coeur de l'islam
AFP , publié le 11 juillet 2017 à 10h17
Richissime philanthrope, Karim al-Hussaini fête mardi les soixante ans de son titre d'Aga Khan, chef spirituel des musulmans chiites ismaéliens, avec la volonté d'amplifier ses activités caritatives, guidé par une "éthique sociale" au coeur de l'islam, dit-il dans un entretien.
"L'éthique sociale est un principe fort en islam. Et je pense que tous les musulmans seraient bien avisés de respecter cela, comme une éthique fondamentale de notre foi, et de vivre en conformité avec elle", a expliqué Karim Aga Khan IV lors d'une interview téléphonique accordée à quelques médias, dont l'AFP, dans la perspective de ce "jubilé de diamant".
Une "année particulière" au cours de laquelle l'Aga Khan fera d'"importantes annonces" concernant ses oeuvres, ont indiqué ses services.
Le prince Karim est devenu le 11 juillet 1957, à 20 ans, le 49e imam héréditaire de la communauté ismaélienne nizârite, deuxième groupe musulman chiite le plus important, qui revendique aujourd'hui 15 millions de fidèles dans environ 25 pays, notamment en Asie centrale.
Il avait alors succédé à son grand-père, l'Aga Khan III, avec pour mission de développer l'oeuvre déjà considérable de cet aïeul qui créa hôpitaux, logements ou coopératives bancaires pour améliorer le sort des plus vulnérables.
Soixante ans après, l'héritier de 80 ans, doté d'un passeport britannique, se voit toujours accoler une image de membre élégant de la jet-set propriétaire de chevaux de course, une passion héritée de son père qui l'a conduit à faire de la région de Chantilly (Oise) - où il possède le château d'Aiglemont - son fief.
Pourtant le Réseau Aga Khan de développement (AKDN) qu'il a fondé emploie aujourd'hui 80.000 salariés, pèse près d'un milliard de dollars investis chaque année sans but lucratif et regroupe de nombreuses agences intervenant dans la santé, l'éducation, l'architecture, la micro-finance, la prévention des catastrophes... En Asie, en Afrique, au Moyen-Orient, mais aussi dans des pays occidentaux.
En France par exemple, l'Aga Khan a fait savoir qu'il pourrait contribuer au financement de la nouvelle Fondation de l'islam de France, qui a vocation à oeuvrer dans les domaines éducatif et culturel.
- 'Religion de paix' -
Un imam chef d'entreprises, fussent-elles caritatives? Rien d'incompatible pour ce guide spirituel vénéré par ses fidèles, qui le considèrent comme un descendant du prophète Mahomet.
"La nature de l'imamat, en islam, est à la fois théologique et laïque", explique l'Aga Khan, qui y voit un "système de valeurs" unique. Pour lui, l'engagement de l'imam dans les matières profanes vise à "améliorer la qualité de vie des gens".
Maniant un verbe prudent, le chef religieux répugne à aborder les questions de géopolitique, de conflits au Proche et Moyen-Orient, de poussée d'un islam intégriste, de tensions entre musulmans sunnites et chiites.
L'islam n'est pas une confession "de conflit ou de désordre social, c'est une religion de paix", observe-t-il. Il est instrumentalisé dans des situations "essentiellement politiques, mais qui sont présentées, pour diverses raisons, dans un contexte théologique. Ce n'est tout simplement pas correct", estime-t-il.
Interrogé sur la défiance dans certains pays occidentaux à l'égard de l'accueil de migrants en majorité musulmans, l'imam ismaélien invoque un "manque de compréhension de ce qu'est l'islam", religion "monothéiste dont les principes correspondent à ceux des autres grandes confessions".
L'accueil de réfugiés nécessite "empathie et sollicitude", relève l'Aga Khan, qui souligne l'exemple du Canada où les exilés sont les "bienvenus".
L'Aga Khan voit comme premier défi la "réduction de la pauvreté". Pour cela, il insiste sur la nécessité de lutter contre le changement climatique, "menace majeure pour le monde en développement". Et celle d'améliorer l'accès aux "ressources économiques", alors que "notre système bancaire est axé sur la notion de profit plutôt que le soutien social", et que les "entreprises de taille moyenne" sont souvent "sous-financées".
http://www.lepoint.fr/monde/l-aga-khan- ... 283_24.php
L'Aga Khan fête son jubilé de diamant guidé par l'"éthique sociale" au coeur de l'islam
AFP , publié le 11 juillet 2017 à 10h17
Richissime philanthrope, Karim al-Hussaini fête mardi les soixante ans de son titre d'Aga Khan, chef spirituel des musulmans chiites ismaéliens, avec la volonté d'amplifier ses activités caritatives, guidé par une "éthique sociale" au coeur de l'islam, dit-il dans un entretien.
"L'éthique sociale est un principe fort en islam. Et je pense que tous les musulmans seraient bien avisés de respecter cela, comme une éthique fondamentale de notre foi, et de vivre en conformité avec elle", a expliqué Karim Aga Khan IV lors d'une interview téléphonique accordée à quelques médias, dont l'AFP, dans la perspective de ce "jubilé de diamant".
Une "année particulière" au cours de laquelle l'Aga Khan fera d'"importantes annonces" concernant ses oeuvres, ont indiqué ses services.
Le prince Karim est devenu le 11 juillet 1957, à 20 ans, le 49e imam héréditaire de la communauté ismaélienne nizârite, deuxième groupe musulman chiite le plus important, qui revendique aujourd'hui 15 millions de fidèles dans environ 25 pays, notamment en Asie centrale.
Il avait alors succédé à son grand-père, l'Aga Khan III, avec pour mission de développer l'oeuvre déjà considérable de cet aïeul qui créa hôpitaux, logements ou coopératives bancaires pour améliorer le sort des plus vulnérables.
Soixante ans après, l'héritier de 80 ans, doté d'un passeport britannique, se voit toujours accoler une image de membre élégant de la jet-set propriétaire de chevaux de course, une passion héritée de son père qui l'a conduit à faire de la région de Chantilly (Oise) - où il possède le château d'Aiglemont - son fief.
Pourtant le Réseau Aga Khan de développement (AKDN) qu'il a fondé emploie aujourd'hui 80.000 salariés, pèse près d'un milliard de dollars investis chaque année sans but lucratif et regroupe de nombreuses agences intervenant dans la santé, l'éducation, l'architecture, la micro-finance, la prévention des catastrophes... En Asie, en Afrique, au Moyen-Orient, mais aussi dans des pays occidentaux.
En France par exemple, l'Aga Khan a fait savoir qu'il pourrait contribuer au financement de la nouvelle Fondation de l'islam de France, qui a vocation à oeuvrer dans les domaines éducatif et culturel.
- 'Religion de paix' -
Un imam chef d'entreprises, fussent-elles caritatives? Rien d'incompatible pour ce guide spirituel vénéré par ses fidèles, qui le considèrent comme un descendant du prophète Mahomet.
"La nature de l'imamat, en islam, est à la fois théologique et laïque", explique l'Aga Khan, qui y voit un "système de valeurs" unique. Pour lui, l'engagement de l'imam dans les matières profanes vise à "améliorer la qualité de vie des gens".
Maniant un verbe prudent, le chef religieux répugne à aborder les questions de géopolitique, de conflits au Proche et Moyen-Orient, de poussée d'un islam intégriste, de tensions entre musulmans sunnites et chiites.
L'islam n'est pas une confession "de conflit ou de désordre social, c'est une religion de paix", observe-t-il. Il est instrumentalisé dans des situations "essentiellement politiques, mais qui sont présentées, pour diverses raisons, dans un contexte théologique. Ce n'est tout simplement pas correct", estime-t-il.
Interrogé sur la défiance dans certains pays occidentaux à l'égard de l'accueil de migrants en majorité musulmans, l'imam ismaélien invoque un "manque de compréhension de ce qu'est l'islam", religion "monothéiste dont les principes correspondent à ceux des autres grandes confessions".
L'accueil de réfugiés nécessite "empathie et sollicitude", relève l'Aga Khan, qui souligne l'exemple du Canada où les exilés sont les "bienvenus".
L'Aga Khan voit comme premier défi la "réduction de la pauvreté". Pour cela, il insiste sur la nécessité de lutter contre le changement climatique, "menace majeure pour le monde en développement". Et celle d'améliorer l'accès aux "ressources économiques", alors que "notre système bancaire est axé sur la notion de profit plutôt que le soutien social", et que les "entreprises de taille moyenne" sont souvent "sous-financées".
http://www.nrgui.com/107-opinions/on-ne ... on-vatican
A Lisbonne, l’Aga Khan installe son « Vatican »
Publié le mercredi 12 juillet 2017 16:26
Écrit par Le Monde
Leader d’une communauté de 15 millions de musulmans, Karim Aga Khan IV établit au Portugal le « saint-siège » des ismaéliens. Le descendant du gendre du Prophète prépare aussi sa succession.
Il y a comme un malentendu persistant entre la familiarité que suscitent l’évocation du seul nom de l’Aga Khan et le parcours du personnage. Riche héritier d’une dynastie musulmane mythique, qui a connu des épisodes tapageurs – dont le mariage de son père, Ali Khan, avec Rita Hayworth en 1949 –, Karim Aga Khan a, en France et dans le monde occidental, l’image d’un milliardaire à la tête d’une écurie de chevaux réputée aux haras du château de Chantilly, et qui n’investirait dans le développement que pour se donner bonne conscience.
Lire aussi : Le business de l’écurie France
Mais l’Aga Khan, c’est d’abord et avant tout un descendant du gendre du prophète Mahomet. Ce 11 juillet, Karim Aga Khan IV, 49e imam de la lignée, sera à l’honneur. Quelque quinze millions de musulmans chiites ismaéliens, agriculteurs ou riches commerçants, médecins ou banquiers, dispersés entre l’Asie, l’Afrique et l’Occident fêteront le 60e anniversaire de son intronisation comme leader spirituel de la communauté. C’était en 1957, Karim Al-Hussaini avait tout juste 20 ans. Il était étudiant à Harvard.
Cette célébration sera l’occasion pour le désormais octogénaire de rappeler son attachement aux valeurs de pluralisme et de responsabilité individuelle de sa communauté. « En islam, les leaders ne sont pas là que pour interpréter la foi. Ils ont une responsabilité pour améliorer la qualité de la vie et des sociétés dans lesquelles vivent leurs fidèles », a-t-il confié au Monde à l’avant-veille des festivités.
Un concordat signé avec le Portugal
En tant que leader spirituel d’une communauté chiite minoritaire, Karim Aga Khan ne prétend pas endosser un « habit papal » pour un monde musulman morcelé et en crise. Mais l’idée d’un concile rassemblant toutes les obédiences l’inspire. Même s’il a conscience des limites d’un tel exercice. « J’ai envoyé des proches étudier les méthodes de médiation qui sont appliquées en Occident dans différents domaines, dit-il. Mais nous constatons que le dialogue entre les musulmans fonctionne mieux au niveau des villages qu’au niveau des Etats à l’heure qu’il est. »
Si dispersée et minoritaire soit-elle depuis plus de 1 200 ans, la communauté ismaélienne est en passe de rayonner à nouveau. Le 3 juin 2015, un accord avait été signé avec le Portugal pour l’installation à Lisbonne d’un siège mondial et permanent de l’« imamat ismaélien » – une sorte de Vatican sans Etat pontifical. « C’est un événement historique dans le sens où une institution théologique musulmane aura son siège dans un Etat laïc chrétien », souligne Karim Aga Khan. Après avoir un temps envisagé de s’installer au Canada, le leader spirituel s’est tourné vers Lisbonne pour son « Saint-Siège », qui emménagera dans le Palacete Henrique Mendonça, un édifice historique à l’architecture remarquable où l’Aga Khan lui-même devrait résider.
« Nous nous sommes inspirés du Concordat qui lie le Vatican et le Portugal », révèle-t-il. En 2015, l’Etat portugais a accepté de signer un concordat avec l’imamat, lui accordant une représentation institutionnelle et diplomatique – une première dans la longue histoire de cette communauté qui ne peut revendiquer aucune patrie. Lisbonne a aussi octroyé des exemptions fiscales importantes, comme à l’Eglise portugaise, notamment sur les biens immobiliers liés au culte et sur nombre de transactions financières.
Au Portugal, la communauté ismaélienne compte 7 000 membres, bien intégrés, souvent urbains et influents.
Le Portugal est un vieux pays de connaissance pour la communauté ismaélienne. Elle s’y est installée dans la foulée des indépendances africaines et indiennes, et y compte aujourd’hui 7 000 membres, bien intégrés, souvent urbains et influents. Depuis 2005, d’importants partenariats ont été signés avec l’Etat portugais, tandis que la collaboration avec l’Eglise catholique a permis le développement d’un programme d’échanges culturels et confessionnels au niveau universitaire, donnant à la présence ismaélienne dans le pays une image d’excellence intellectuelle. Le Portugal, lui, se dit « très intéressé par la venue d’une institution qui affiche un budget de 600 à 900 millions d’euros », selon un ancien ministre portugais.
Œuvrer pour le développement
« L’imamat n’est que l’institution qui lie la communauté ismaélienne à son leader spirituel. Cela n’altérera pas le fonctionnement du réseau de développement de l’Aga Khan », assure Mahmoud Eboo, l’un des hauts responsables religieux des ismaéliens. Ce déménagement ne remet pas en cause l’attachement de Karim Aga Khan à la France. A l’initiative de la Fondation pour la sauvegarde et le développement du domaine de Chantilly, il a longtemps soutenu l’Académie diplomatique internationale à Paris. Des projets qui lui ont valu d’être gratifié, en 2009, par l’ex-ministre de la culture Christine Albanel, du titre de grand donateur et grand mécène. Le prince a également promis récemment de donner un million d’euros à la Fondation de l’islam de France, au titre de la recherche en islamologie.
Fort de cette double identité, où se croisent Orient et Occident, vie mondaine et vie spirituelle, fréquentation des puissants et attention aux plus déshérités, l’ancien étudiant de Harvard a patiemment bâti, en soixante ans, l’un des plus importants réseaux de développement privés au monde : l’Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), qui a des activités en France, en partenariat notamment avec l’Agence française de développement (AFD). Basé à Genève, l’AKDN emploie 80 000 personnes dans une trentaine de pays, et ne cesse de multiplier ses domaines d’activités : lutte contre la pauvreté, accès aux soins de santé, infrastructures, éducation, préservation du patrimoine, soutien à la culture, développement des médias… Sa raison d’être : « Concrétiser, à travers l’activité institutionnelle, la vision éthique de la société inspirée par le message de l’islam. »
Pour Karim Aga Khan, le développement est un monde complexe qu’il aime résumer à travers la figure du tabouret à trois pieds : le premier est économique, le deuxième social, le troisième culturel. Si pour fonctionner, l’AKDN peut compter sur l’argent des fidèles, de donateurs privés et de partenaires comme l’AFD, le bras armé de ce véritable « soft power » est la centaine d’entreprises réunies dans un fonds pour le développement économique, l’Akfed (Aga Khan Fund For Economical Development). Cette structure multinationale a engrangé des recettes de 3,5 milliards de dollars en 2015, dans cinq secteurs – industrie, services financiers, aviation, tourisme, médias. « Ce n’est ni une institution charitable ni un moyen d’enrichissement personnel, assure Karim Aga Khan. Ces investissements ont pour objectif l’amélioration des conditions de vie des personnes concernées par ces activités. »
Enseignement et culture
« C’est certainement dans le domaine de l’enseignement et de la culture que l’action de l’AKDN est la plus exceptionnelle », indique Renaud Ego, journaliste et écrivain connaissant bien le réseau. Après la restauration des jardins de Babour, à Kaboul, ou le réaménagement du parc Al-Azhar, au Caire, le réseau de l’Aga Khan œuvre en Syrie. « Nous avons déjà investi dans les régions pacifiées pour la reconstruction du patrimoine syrien, et nous avons pris la décision de continuer à soutenir tout ce qui relève de la culture dans ce pays. C’est l’un des premiers pays musulmans, avec une histoire unique, on ne peut permettre que les conflits d’aujourd’hui détruisent cette histoire », explique « HH » (His Highness, « Son Altesse »), comme le surnomme son entourage depuis que la reine d’Angleterre lui a conféré ce titre en 1957.
Lire aussi : La Fondation de l’islam de France veut cibler en priorité la jeunesse
Dans un monde musulman en pleines turbulences, ce chef spirituel sans Etat se doit cependant de garder une réserve diplomatique extrême. Ses relations avec les Etats musulmans dépendent de leur tolérance vis-à-vis des minorités – dont les ismaéliens. Dirigé par les alaouites, une autre minorité chiite, l’Etat syrien demeure, concède l’Aga Khan, un interlocuteur plus proche que l’Etat saoudien sunnite, qui fait peu de cas du respect du pluralisme. Il se sent plus proche des pays d’Asie centrale, où les communautés ismaéliennes sont très présentes. Ainsi, en octobre 2016, a-t-il inauguré le premier campus de l’université d’Asie centrale, à Naryn (Kirghizistan), qui s’ajoute au réseau des universités créées par l’Aga Khan en Tanzanie, au Pakistan et dans divers pays d’Afrique et d’Asie. « Nous sommes une institution séculaire et non un institut théologique, même s’il y aura un enseignement des religions comparées », a-t-il déclaré devant la première promotion, qui comptait des Kazakhs athées, des jeunes filles tadjiks ou des réfugiés afghans.
Histoire tourmentée
Planétaire, la communauté ismaélienne a autant de visages que de pays où elle réside. Karim Aga Khan ne cesse de réaffirmer l’engagement non confessionnel des projets de son réseau. Mais son efficacité repose sur l’attachement viscéral des ismaéliens à leur leader spirituel. Lorsqu’il a célébré son jubilé, en 2007, plutôt que de recevoir de somptueux cadeaux – ou, comme son grand-père, son poids en or – il a demandé à ses fidèles de lui offrir leur « temps » et leurs « connaissances » – « Time, knowledge and nazrana [« cadeau », en ourdou]. » Des milliers de volontaires « TKN », médecins, universitaires, ingénieurs, infirmières, architectes, ont ainsi déposé leurs noms dans une base de données, pour aider le réseau. « Je voulais que l’on cesse d’envisager tout sous l’angle de l’argent. On a ainsi mobilisé des ressources humaines extraordinaires », se félicite Karim Aga Khan. « La plupart des “TKN” viennent d’Amérique du Nord, détaille Mahmoud Eboo. Ils ont un haut niveau d’éducation. »
Aujourd’hui plus que jamais, Karim Aga Khan IV entend continuer à incarner une éthique musulmane tolérante, soucieuse de justice et donnant à l’effort intellectuel un rôle essentiel dans le rapprochement des peuples et dans sa foi. Une interprétation de l’islam qui peut désigner sa communauté, chiite, comme cible pour des fondamentalistes sunnites. En témoigne l’attentat contre un autobus transportant une soixantaine d’ismaéliens à Karachi (Pakistan), le 13 mai 2015.
De cette histoire particulièrement tourmentée, Karim Aga Khan IV conserve un principe intangible, talisman de la survie de sa communauté : la discrétion. Ainsi, alors que la question de sa succession commence à se poser depuis qu’il a eu 80 ans, en décembre, rien ne filtrera avant qu’il ne fasse son choix entre ses trois fils pour désigner celui qui sera le cinquantième imam des ismaéliens : le prince Rahim, déjà investi dans le secteur économique de l’AKDN, le prince Hussain, très actif dans la culture, ou le prince Aly Muhammad, qui poursuit ses études. Il leur lèguera un empire économique et confessionnel, puissant et fragile. Les héritiers sauront-ils poursuivre sur la voie de cette modernité mâtinée de tradition dans laquelle s’est engagé leur père ?
Le Monde
A Lisbonne, l’Aga Khan installe son « Vatican »
Publié le mercredi 12 juillet 2017 16:26
Écrit par Le Monde
Leader d’une communauté de 15 millions de musulmans, Karim Aga Khan IV établit au Portugal le « saint-siège » des ismaéliens. Le descendant du gendre du Prophète prépare aussi sa succession.
Il y a comme un malentendu persistant entre la familiarité que suscitent l’évocation du seul nom de l’Aga Khan et le parcours du personnage. Riche héritier d’une dynastie musulmane mythique, qui a connu des épisodes tapageurs – dont le mariage de son père, Ali Khan, avec Rita Hayworth en 1949 –, Karim Aga Khan a, en France et dans le monde occidental, l’image d’un milliardaire à la tête d’une écurie de chevaux réputée aux haras du château de Chantilly, et qui n’investirait dans le développement que pour se donner bonne conscience.
Lire aussi : Le business de l’écurie France
Mais l’Aga Khan, c’est d’abord et avant tout un descendant du gendre du prophète Mahomet. Ce 11 juillet, Karim Aga Khan IV, 49e imam de la lignée, sera à l’honneur. Quelque quinze millions de musulmans chiites ismaéliens, agriculteurs ou riches commerçants, médecins ou banquiers, dispersés entre l’Asie, l’Afrique et l’Occident fêteront le 60e anniversaire de son intronisation comme leader spirituel de la communauté. C’était en 1957, Karim Al-Hussaini avait tout juste 20 ans. Il était étudiant à Harvard.
Cette célébration sera l’occasion pour le désormais octogénaire de rappeler son attachement aux valeurs de pluralisme et de responsabilité individuelle de sa communauté. « En islam, les leaders ne sont pas là que pour interpréter la foi. Ils ont une responsabilité pour améliorer la qualité de la vie et des sociétés dans lesquelles vivent leurs fidèles », a-t-il confié au Monde à l’avant-veille des festivités.
Un concordat signé avec le Portugal
En tant que leader spirituel d’une communauté chiite minoritaire, Karim Aga Khan ne prétend pas endosser un « habit papal » pour un monde musulman morcelé et en crise. Mais l’idée d’un concile rassemblant toutes les obédiences l’inspire. Même s’il a conscience des limites d’un tel exercice. « J’ai envoyé des proches étudier les méthodes de médiation qui sont appliquées en Occident dans différents domaines, dit-il. Mais nous constatons que le dialogue entre les musulmans fonctionne mieux au niveau des villages qu’au niveau des Etats à l’heure qu’il est. »
Si dispersée et minoritaire soit-elle depuis plus de 1 200 ans, la communauté ismaélienne est en passe de rayonner à nouveau. Le 3 juin 2015, un accord avait été signé avec le Portugal pour l’installation à Lisbonne d’un siège mondial et permanent de l’« imamat ismaélien » – une sorte de Vatican sans Etat pontifical. « C’est un événement historique dans le sens où une institution théologique musulmane aura son siège dans un Etat laïc chrétien », souligne Karim Aga Khan. Après avoir un temps envisagé de s’installer au Canada, le leader spirituel s’est tourné vers Lisbonne pour son « Saint-Siège », qui emménagera dans le Palacete Henrique Mendonça, un édifice historique à l’architecture remarquable où l’Aga Khan lui-même devrait résider.
« Nous nous sommes inspirés du Concordat qui lie le Vatican et le Portugal », révèle-t-il. En 2015, l’Etat portugais a accepté de signer un concordat avec l’imamat, lui accordant une représentation institutionnelle et diplomatique – une première dans la longue histoire de cette communauté qui ne peut revendiquer aucune patrie. Lisbonne a aussi octroyé des exemptions fiscales importantes, comme à l’Eglise portugaise, notamment sur les biens immobiliers liés au culte et sur nombre de transactions financières.
Au Portugal, la communauté ismaélienne compte 7 000 membres, bien intégrés, souvent urbains et influents.
Le Portugal est un vieux pays de connaissance pour la communauté ismaélienne. Elle s’y est installée dans la foulée des indépendances africaines et indiennes, et y compte aujourd’hui 7 000 membres, bien intégrés, souvent urbains et influents. Depuis 2005, d’importants partenariats ont été signés avec l’Etat portugais, tandis que la collaboration avec l’Eglise catholique a permis le développement d’un programme d’échanges culturels et confessionnels au niveau universitaire, donnant à la présence ismaélienne dans le pays une image d’excellence intellectuelle. Le Portugal, lui, se dit « très intéressé par la venue d’une institution qui affiche un budget de 600 à 900 millions d’euros », selon un ancien ministre portugais.
Œuvrer pour le développement
« L’imamat n’est que l’institution qui lie la communauté ismaélienne à son leader spirituel. Cela n’altérera pas le fonctionnement du réseau de développement de l’Aga Khan », assure Mahmoud Eboo, l’un des hauts responsables religieux des ismaéliens. Ce déménagement ne remet pas en cause l’attachement de Karim Aga Khan à la France. A l’initiative de la Fondation pour la sauvegarde et le développement du domaine de Chantilly, il a longtemps soutenu l’Académie diplomatique internationale à Paris. Des projets qui lui ont valu d’être gratifié, en 2009, par l’ex-ministre de la culture Christine Albanel, du titre de grand donateur et grand mécène. Le prince a également promis récemment de donner un million d’euros à la Fondation de l’islam de France, au titre de la recherche en islamologie.
Fort de cette double identité, où se croisent Orient et Occident, vie mondaine et vie spirituelle, fréquentation des puissants et attention aux plus déshérités, l’ancien étudiant de Harvard a patiemment bâti, en soixante ans, l’un des plus importants réseaux de développement privés au monde : l’Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), qui a des activités en France, en partenariat notamment avec l’Agence française de développement (AFD). Basé à Genève, l’AKDN emploie 80 000 personnes dans une trentaine de pays, et ne cesse de multiplier ses domaines d’activités : lutte contre la pauvreté, accès aux soins de santé, infrastructures, éducation, préservation du patrimoine, soutien à la culture, développement des médias… Sa raison d’être : « Concrétiser, à travers l’activité institutionnelle, la vision éthique de la société inspirée par le message de l’islam. »
Pour Karim Aga Khan, le développement est un monde complexe qu’il aime résumer à travers la figure du tabouret à trois pieds : le premier est économique, le deuxième social, le troisième culturel. Si pour fonctionner, l’AKDN peut compter sur l’argent des fidèles, de donateurs privés et de partenaires comme l’AFD, le bras armé de ce véritable « soft power » est la centaine d’entreprises réunies dans un fonds pour le développement économique, l’Akfed (Aga Khan Fund For Economical Development). Cette structure multinationale a engrangé des recettes de 3,5 milliards de dollars en 2015, dans cinq secteurs – industrie, services financiers, aviation, tourisme, médias. « Ce n’est ni une institution charitable ni un moyen d’enrichissement personnel, assure Karim Aga Khan. Ces investissements ont pour objectif l’amélioration des conditions de vie des personnes concernées par ces activités. »
Enseignement et culture
« C’est certainement dans le domaine de l’enseignement et de la culture que l’action de l’AKDN est la plus exceptionnelle », indique Renaud Ego, journaliste et écrivain connaissant bien le réseau. Après la restauration des jardins de Babour, à Kaboul, ou le réaménagement du parc Al-Azhar, au Caire, le réseau de l’Aga Khan œuvre en Syrie. « Nous avons déjà investi dans les régions pacifiées pour la reconstruction du patrimoine syrien, et nous avons pris la décision de continuer à soutenir tout ce qui relève de la culture dans ce pays. C’est l’un des premiers pays musulmans, avec une histoire unique, on ne peut permettre que les conflits d’aujourd’hui détruisent cette histoire », explique « HH » (His Highness, « Son Altesse »), comme le surnomme son entourage depuis que la reine d’Angleterre lui a conféré ce titre en 1957.
Lire aussi : La Fondation de l’islam de France veut cibler en priorité la jeunesse
Dans un monde musulman en pleines turbulences, ce chef spirituel sans Etat se doit cependant de garder une réserve diplomatique extrême. Ses relations avec les Etats musulmans dépendent de leur tolérance vis-à-vis des minorités – dont les ismaéliens. Dirigé par les alaouites, une autre minorité chiite, l’Etat syrien demeure, concède l’Aga Khan, un interlocuteur plus proche que l’Etat saoudien sunnite, qui fait peu de cas du respect du pluralisme. Il se sent plus proche des pays d’Asie centrale, où les communautés ismaéliennes sont très présentes. Ainsi, en octobre 2016, a-t-il inauguré le premier campus de l’université d’Asie centrale, à Naryn (Kirghizistan), qui s’ajoute au réseau des universités créées par l’Aga Khan en Tanzanie, au Pakistan et dans divers pays d’Afrique et d’Asie. « Nous sommes une institution séculaire et non un institut théologique, même s’il y aura un enseignement des religions comparées », a-t-il déclaré devant la première promotion, qui comptait des Kazakhs athées, des jeunes filles tadjiks ou des réfugiés afghans.
Histoire tourmentée
Planétaire, la communauté ismaélienne a autant de visages que de pays où elle réside. Karim Aga Khan ne cesse de réaffirmer l’engagement non confessionnel des projets de son réseau. Mais son efficacité repose sur l’attachement viscéral des ismaéliens à leur leader spirituel. Lorsqu’il a célébré son jubilé, en 2007, plutôt que de recevoir de somptueux cadeaux – ou, comme son grand-père, son poids en or – il a demandé à ses fidèles de lui offrir leur « temps » et leurs « connaissances » – « Time, knowledge and nazrana [« cadeau », en ourdou]. » Des milliers de volontaires « TKN », médecins, universitaires, ingénieurs, infirmières, architectes, ont ainsi déposé leurs noms dans une base de données, pour aider le réseau. « Je voulais que l’on cesse d’envisager tout sous l’angle de l’argent. On a ainsi mobilisé des ressources humaines extraordinaires », se félicite Karim Aga Khan. « La plupart des “TKN” viennent d’Amérique du Nord, détaille Mahmoud Eboo. Ils ont un haut niveau d’éducation. »
Aujourd’hui plus que jamais, Karim Aga Khan IV entend continuer à incarner une éthique musulmane tolérante, soucieuse de justice et donnant à l’effort intellectuel un rôle essentiel dans le rapprochement des peuples et dans sa foi. Une interprétation de l’islam qui peut désigner sa communauté, chiite, comme cible pour des fondamentalistes sunnites. En témoigne l’attentat contre un autobus transportant une soixantaine d’ismaéliens à Karachi (Pakistan), le 13 mai 2015.
De cette histoire particulièrement tourmentée, Karim Aga Khan IV conserve un principe intangible, talisman de la survie de sa communauté : la discrétion. Ainsi, alors que la question de sa succession commence à se poser depuis qu’il a eu 80 ans, en décembre, rien ne filtrera avant qu’il ne fasse son choix entre ses trois fils pour désigner celui qui sera le cinquantième imam des ismaéliens : le prince Rahim, déjà investi dans le secteur économique de l’AKDN, le prince Hussain, très actif dans la culture, ou le prince Aly Muhammad, qui poursuit ses études. Il leur lèguera un empire économique et confessionnel, puissant et fragile. Les héritiers sauront-ils poursuivre sur la voie de cette modernité mâtinée de tradition dans laquelle s’est engagé leur père ?
Le Monde
http://www.diplomaticourier.com/2017/07 ... e-building
Dialogue of Civilizations: Aga Khan Celebrates 60 Years of Bridge-Building
July 11, 2017
Written by Ana C. Rold
In a 1993 article titled “The Clash of Civilizations” Samuel P. Huntington argued that in the post-Cold War world, Islamic extremism would become the biggest threat to world peace. The essay has become sort of a self-fulfilling prophecy. All you need to do to validate it is to turn on the internet or wherever you get your 24/7 “news”. Famously, the journal that published the essay also published a series of other essays sparking the debate: are we or are we not in the midst of a Clash?
Why bring up Huntington today? If you want to look for how the Clash is affecting worldviews you need not look further than President Trump’s speech in Poland last week. “The fundamental question of our time is whether the West has the will to survive,” he said. “Do we have the desire and the courage to preserve our civilization in the face of those who would subvert and destroy it?” If you read and watch the news with the same round-the-clock voracity that most of us do, it’s easy to see that public perception is divided: those who believe the West is in imminent danger from this Clash and those who believe in dialogue.
As His Highness, the Aga Khan celebrates a Diamond Jubilee today—60th year as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims—we are reminded that interfaith bridges of understanding are not the kind of stories that you hear about every day. Indeed, the 24/7 news cycle is not built to tell “soft news.” But if you fall into the camp of those who seek a world of bridges, you should know about the man who has been building them since he was a 21-year-old. The Aga Khan calls the clash of civilizations a “clash of mutual ignorance.” In his words: “The world we seek is not a world where difference is erased but where difference can be a powerful force for good, helping us to fashion a new sense of cooperation and coherence in our world and to build a better life for all.”
The post-colonial world saw a West disinterested in Asia and Africa. But the Aga Khan saw opportunity in human capital. He founded the Aga Khan Foundation and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to empower communities in these regions to help themselves. What does that mean?
Take Tajikistan, for example. In an interview with Diplomatic Courier, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation USA, Aleem Walji, told me of the Foundation’s work in the country as a prime example of development done right. In the 1990s Tajikistan was caught up in conflict and was considered a fragile state. “Over two decades, we created an ecosystem for development,” explains Walji. “We invested in education, infrastructure, broadband, language, and building the capacity of an entire generation of Tajiks.” The investment has been transformative for the region, translating to “youth that are not susceptive to many of the trends that are happening in other parts of the Muslim world…(because) they have access to economic opportunity and social inclusion.”
How massive is this effort?
“We are not trying to boil the ocean,” says Walji. “We work in sub-geographies, with communities and projects we feel we can have the most impact on…through a massive voluntary infrastructure on top of our 80,000 employees.” Not a small feat. The Foundation along with AKDN operate more than 200 health care institutions, two universities in six countries, and 200 schools and school improvement programs in very poor and remote parts of the world.
Inspired by the Islamic ethic of compassion and responsibility to care for the needy, AKDN is working to build an all-encompassing civil society that addresses the needs of vulnerable populations. AKDN has broad mandates including, health, education, architecture, microfinance, disaster reduction, rural development, the promotion of private-sector enterprise, and the revitalization of historic cities. “Our objective is to always fill gaps where public and private institutions are weak or absent,” explains Wajli “but to do it in a way that is building capacity and always alongside governments and private sector.”
We have a tendency to talk about peace in the context of conflict; to talk about health in the context of disease. But that which keeps us healthy is very different from what we need in order to stop pathology when we get sick. Indeed, in tackling our world’s biggest issues, we can look at the pathology or we can look at prevention. According to Walji: “If we look at the broader trend lines, quality of life has improved all over the world.” Maternal and child mortality rates have fallen dramatically compared to 20-30 years ago. So have mortality rates from diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. Although Wajli is modest in his assessment, Aga Khan and his network of development have employed this kind of thinking from the start. Now, we see many organizations following the logic that every citizen has a responsibility to play a productive role in society. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are precisely about that: individuals—not just governments—are empowered to bring about positive change.
This message may get lost in the news shuffle today. “The perceived levels of misunderstanding and mistrust between the Muslim World and certain parts of the West is at the forefront of what we see,” says Wajli. “I think it’s very unfortunate because the headlines don’t really capture what’s happening in the majority of the Muslim World and amongst Muslims.”
Even though the state of the world is improving and mind-boggling technological advancements are making life easier and better, we’ve become captive to our own views. We go to our comfort zones in digital communication wastelands not for dialogue but to reinforce our version of reality. The Aga Khan’s programs and investments are deeds that demonstrate the power of the dialogue of civilizations over the past 50+ years. His success should propel a new generation of bridge builders.
Photo credit: Education for Marginalized Children in Kenya’s (EMACK) Whole School approach engages parents and community stakeholders in children’s learning processes, develops a community of reading, and supports identification of school challenges and solutions by School Management Committees. These girls attend Our Lady of Nazareth Primary School, which has received support from the project. Photo by AKDN/Lucas Cuervo Moura.
About the author: Ana C. Rold is Founder and CEO of Diplomatic Courier. She teaches political science courses at Northeastern University and is the Host of The World in 2050–A Forum About Our Future. To engage with her on this article follow her on Twitter @ACRold.
Dialogue of Civilizations: Aga Khan Celebrates 60 Years of Bridge-Building
July 11, 2017
Written by Ana C. Rold
In a 1993 article titled “The Clash of Civilizations” Samuel P. Huntington argued that in the post-Cold War world, Islamic extremism would become the biggest threat to world peace. The essay has become sort of a self-fulfilling prophecy. All you need to do to validate it is to turn on the internet or wherever you get your 24/7 “news”. Famously, the journal that published the essay also published a series of other essays sparking the debate: are we or are we not in the midst of a Clash?
Why bring up Huntington today? If you want to look for how the Clash is affecting worldviews you need not look further than President Trump’s speech in Poland last week. “The fundamental question of our time is whether the West has the will to survive,” he said. “Do we have the desire and the courage to preserve our civilization in the face of those who would subvert and destroy it?” If you read and watch the news with the same round-the-clock voracity that most of us do, it’s easy to see that public perception is divided: those who believe the West is in imminent danger from this Clash and those who believe in dialogue.
As His Highness, the Aga Khan celebrates a Diamond Jubilee today—60th year as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims—we are reminded that interfaith bridges of understanding are not the kind of stories that you hear about every day. Indeed, the 24/7 news cycle is not built to tell “soft news.” But if you fall into the camp of those who seek a world of bridges, you should know about the man who has been building them since he was a 21-year-old. The Aga Khan calls the clash of civilizations a “clash of mutual ignorance.” In his words: “The world we seek is not a world where difference is erased but where difference can be a powerful force for good, helping us to fashion a new sense of cooperation and coherence in our world and to build a better life for all.”
The post-colonial world saw a West disinterested in Asia and Africa. But the Aga Khan saw opportunity in human capital. He founded the Aga Khan Foundation and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to empower communities in these regions to help themselves. What does that mean?
Take Tajikistan, for example. In an interview with Diplomatic Courier, CEO of Aga Khan Foundation USA, Aleem Walji, told me of the Foundation’s work in the country as a prime example of development done right. In the 1990s Tajikistan was caught up in conflict and was considered a fragile state. “Over two decades, we created an ecosystem for development,” explains Walji. “We invested in education, infrastructure, broadband, language, and building the capacity of an entire generation of Tajiks.” The investment has been transformative for the region, translating to “youth that are not susceptive to many of the trends that are happening in other parts of the Muslim world…(because) they have access to economic opportunity and social inclusion.”
How massive is this effort?
“We are not trying to boil the ocean,” says Walji. “We work in sub-geographies, with communities and projects we feel we can have the most impact on…through a massive voluntary infrastructure on top of our 80,000 employees.” Not a small feat. The Foundation along with AKDN operate more than 200 health care institutions, two universities in six countries, and 200 schools and school improvement programs in very poor and remote parts of the world.
Inspired by the Islamic ethic of compassion and responsibility to care for the needy, AKDN is working to build an all-encompassing civil society that addresses the needs of vulnerable populations. AKDN has broad mandates including, health, education, architecture, microfinance, disaster reduction, rural development, the promotion of private-sector enterprise, and the revitalization of historic cities. “Our objective is to always fill gaps where public and private institutions are weak or absent,” explains Wajli “but to do it in a way that is building capacity and always alongside governments and private sector.”
We have a tendency to talk about peace in the context of conflict; to talk about health in the context of disease. But that which keeps us healthy is very different from what we need in order to stop pathology when we get sick. Indeed, in tackling our world’s biggest issues, we can look at the pathology or we can look at prevention. According to Walji: “If we look at the broader trend lines, quality of life has improved all over the world.” Maternal and child mortality rates have fallen dramatically compared to 20-30 years ago. So have mortality rates from diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. Although Wajli is modest in his assessment, Aga Khan and his network of development have employed this kind of thinking from the start. Now, we see many organizations following the logic that every citizen has a responsibility to play a productive role in society. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are precisely about that: individuals—not just governments—are empowered to bring about positive change.
This message may get lost in the news shuffle today. “The perceived levels of misunderstanding and mistrust between the Muslim World and certain parts of the West is at the forefront of what we see,” says Wajli. “I think it’s very unfortunate because the headlines don’t really capture what’s happening in the majority of the Muslim World and amongst Muslims.”
Even though the state of the world is improving and mind-boggling technological advancements are making life easier and better, we’ve become captive to our own views. We go to our comfort zones in digital communication wastelands not for dialogue but to reinforce our version of reality. The Aga Khan’s programs and investments are deeds that demonstrate the power of the dialogue of civilizations over the past 50+ years. His success should propel a new generation of bridge builders.
Photo credit: Education for Marginalized Children in Kenya’s (EMACK) Whole School approach engages parents and community stakeholders in children’s learning processes, develops a community of reading, and supports identification of school challenges and solutions by School Management Committees. These girls attend Our Lady of Nazareth Primary School, which has received support from the project. Photo by AKDN/Lucas Cuervo Moura.
About the author: Ana C. Rold is Founder and CEO of Diplomatic Courier. She teaches political science courses at Northeastern University and is the Host of The World in 2050–A Forum About Our Future. To engage with her on this article follow her on Twitter @ACRold.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/216352 ... ans-legacy
The Aga Khan’s legacy
The News, Pakistan
July 14, 2017
The Ismaili community across the world is celebrating the diamond jubilee of their beloved spiritual leader Prince Karim Aga Khan IV with zeal. In 1957, 20-year-old Prince Karim Aga Khan succeeded his late grandfather as the leader of the Ismaili community, which now has 15 million followers globally.
The Ismailis, rejecting all forms of violence and extremism, are known as the most peace-loving people and this was especially true under the leadership of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who has spent 60 years promoting quality education, advocating tolerance and empowering the community.
In his message on Imamat Day, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that: “The Aga Khan has used his role to advance global humanitarian causes, helping to support sustainable development and poverty reduction projects and enhance civil society and education around the world”.
The Aga Khan – whose roots can be traced to the Egyptian and Persian empires – has enjoyed cordial relations with the elite classes of various countries. Even in British India, the Viceroy of India had formally recognised the title ‘Aga Khan’ for Prince Karim’s predecessors in 1887.
Aga Khan I, whose real name was Hasan Ali Shah, was also awarded the status of ‘Prince’ by the British government and he was the only religious community leader in British India who was granted a gun salute. After his demise, Aqa Ali Shah, who became Aga Khan II, played a pivotal role in maintaining close relations with other communities.
Sir Sultan Muhammed Shah, who succeeded Aqa Ali Shah as Aga Khan III, was one of the most active and dynamic leaders of the Pakistan Movement and a close aide of Quaid-e-Azam. He was also one of the founders and the first president of the All-India Muslim League (AIML). He was a strong supporter of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s vision that the Muslims of India should first focus on strengthening their economic conditions through education before entering politics. In this regard, he also offered the Aga Khan Foreign Scholarship for talented Muslim students at Aligarh University.
After the creation of Pakistan, Aga Khan III, on the request of the then prime minister Feroz Khan Noon, purchased Gwadar from Oman and gifted it to Pakistan. Gwadar is now considered to be a game-changer for the region due to CPEC.
In 1957, at the age of 20, Aga Khan IV Prince Shah Karim Al Husseini succeeded his grandfather as 49th Imam of the Ismaili community. He also inherited his grandparent’s positive agenda that was based on tolerance and serving mankind. As a British citizen who was born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard and lived in a French chateau, the life of Aga Khan IV is a shimmering example of pluralism and global harmony.
In the 1970s, when racial discrimination was on the rise in the African continent, Ugandan nationalist leader Idi Amin began expelling people of Asian descent from the country. The then prime minister of Canada, in response to the Aga Khan’s request, accepted as many as 7,000 Ugandan Asians as refugees on humanitarian grounds. The specific incident reflects the extent to which the Western world trusted the Aga Khan. The refugees from Uganda later played a pivotal role in bringing prosperity to Canada’s pluralist society.
In another incident, Prince Karim Aga Khan decided to raise the standard of living through education during his first visit to Gilgit-Baltistan. Today, the literacy rate of Gilgit-Baltistan is the highest across Pakistan. He also founded the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which operates in more than 35 countries across the globe. The AKDN agencies are active in the spheres of education, health, rural development, institution-building and economic development.
The Aga Khan looks after various welfare initiatives as well. Through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, he is taking steps to preserve Islamic heritage sites, particularly the historical buildings belonging to the Fatimid Dynasty in Egypt, the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun and the ancient city of Agra in India. The Aga Khan is truly a role model. I drew inspiration from him and founded the Pakistan Hindu Council in 2005 to serve my community.
The international community has also announced various awards for Prince Karim Aga Khan. Around 50 countries have conferred national awards on him while leading universities across the world have also awarded honorary degrees to him.
The reason behind the respect that the Aga Khans have earned is their ability to serve mankind by making the best use of their wealth. On the occasion of the diamond jubilee celebrations, we must request him to serve as a bridge between the Muslim world and the West.
The writer is a member of the National Assembly and patron-in-chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council.
Twitter: @RVankwani
The Aga Khan’s legacy
The News, Pakistan
July 14, 2017
The Ismaili community across the world is celebrating the diamond jubilee of their beloved spiritual leader Prince Karim Aga Khan IV with zeal. In 1957, 20-year-old Prince Karim Aga Khan succeeded his late grandfather as the leader of the Ismaili community, which now has 15 million followers globally.
The Ismailis, rejecting all forms of violence and extremism, are known as the most peace-loving people and this was especially true under the leadership of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who has spent 60 years promoting quality education, advocating tolerance and empowering the community.
In his message on Imamat Day, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that: “The Aga Khan has used his role to advance global humanitarian causes, helping to support sustainable development and poverty reduction projects and enhance civil society and education around the world”.
The Aga Khan – whose roots can be traced to the Egyptian and Persian empires – has enjoyed cordial relations with the elite classes of various countries. Even in British India, the Viceroy of India had formally recognised the title ‘Aga Khan’ for Prince Karim’s predecessors in 1887.
Aga Khan I, whose real name was Hasan Ali Shah, was also awarded the status of ‘Prince’ by the British government and he was the only religious community leader in British India who was granted a gun salute. After his demise, Aqa Ali Shah, who became Aga Khan II, played a pivotal role in maintaining close relations with other communities.
Sir Sultan Muhammed Shah, who succeeded Aqa Ali Shah as Aga Khan III, was one of the most active and dynamic leaders of the Pakistan Movement and a close aide of Quaid-e-Azam. He was also one of the founders and the first president of the All-India Muslim League (AIML). He was a strong supporter of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s vision that the Muslims of India should first focus on strengthening their economic conditions through education before entering politics. In this regard, he also offered the Aga Khan Foreign Scholarship for talented Muslim students at Aligarh University.
After the creation of Pakistan, Aga Khan III, on the request of the then prime minister Feroz Khan Noon, purchased Gwadar from Oman and gifted it to Pakistan. Gwadar is now considered to be a game-changer for the region due to CPEC.
In 1957, at the age of 20, Aga Khan IV Prince Shah Karim Al Husseini succeeded his grandfather as 49th Imam of the Ismaili community. He also inherited his grandparent’s positive agenda that was based on tolerance and serving mankind. As a British citizen who was born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard and lived in a French chateau, the life of Aga Khan IV is a shimmering example of pluralism and global harmony.
In the 1970s, when racial discrimination was on the rise in the African continent, Ugandan nationalist leader Idi Amin began expelling people of Asian descent from the country. The then prime minister of Canada, in response to the Aga Khan’s request, accepted as many as 7,000 Ugandan Asians as refugees on humanitarian grounds. The specific incident reflects the extent to which the Western world trusted the Aga Khan. The refugees from Uganda later played a pivotal role in bringing prosperity to Canada’s pluralist society.
In another incident, Prince Karim Aga Khan decided to raise the standard of living through education during his first visit to Gilgit-Baltistan. Today, the literacy rate of Gilgit-Baltistan is the highest across Pakistan. He also founded the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which operates in more than 35 countries across the globe. The AKDN agencies are active in the spheres of education, health, rural development, institution-building and economic development.
The Aga Khan looks after various welfare initiatives as well. Through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, he is taking steps to preserve Islamic heritage sites, particularly the historical buildings belonging to the Fatimid Dynasty in Egypt, the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun and the ancient city of Agra in India. The Aga Khan is truly a role model. I drew inspiration from him and founded the Pakistan Hindu Council in 2005 to serve my community.
The international community has also announced various awards for Prince Karim Aga Khan. Around 50 countries have conferred national awards on him while leading universities across the world have also awarded honorary degrees to him.
The reason behind the respect that the Aga Khans have earned is their ability to serve mankind by making the best use of their wealth. On the occasion of the diamond jubilee celebrations, we must request him to serve as a bridge between the Muslim world and the West.
The writer is a member of the National Assembly and patron-in-chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council.
Twitter: @RVankwani
Elucidation by Mahebub Chatur
DIAMOND JUBILEE - IMAMAT DAY HOMAGE CEREMONY ON 11 JULY 2017
For complete text, download the pdf from
www.ismaili.net/timeline/2017/homage-ce ... y-2017.pdf
M Eboo also said on behalf of the Jamat "Hazar Imam, noble descendant and heir of the Holy Prophet and Hazrat Ali, on this auspicious day marking 60 glorious years of your Imamat, we bow to you. You are our Mawla, you are our Ali"
For complete text, download the pdf from
www.ismaili.net/timeline/2017/homage-ce ... y-2017.pdf
DIAMOND JUBILEE - IMAMAT DAY HOMAGE CEREMONY ON 11 JULY 2017
For complete text, download the pdf from
www.ismaili.net/timeline/2017/homage-ce ... y-2017.pdf
M Eboo also said on behalf of the Jamat "Hazar Imam, noble descendant and heir of the Holy Prophet and Hazrat Ali, on this auspicious day marking 60 glorious years of your Imamat, we bow to you. You are our Mawla, you are our Ali"
For complete text, download the pdf from
www.ismaili.net/timeline/2017/homage-ce ... y-2017.pdf
A rare interview with the Aga Khan on poverty, climate change, and demystifying Islam
His Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan, is many things.
“Virtually a one-man state,” as Vanity Fair once put it, he’s the spiritual leader of the world’s 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims and a unique embodiment of the potential for East blending with West. He inherited from his Indian-born grandfather a dynasty that spans the Muslim world, but he is a British citizen, born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard, and lives in a French chateau.
A reported descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, he has dedicated his life to fighting poverty and heads one of the world’s most active development foundations, reaching millions of people in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East each year via the Aga Khan Development Network.
At the same time, he is the billionaire owner of a private Caribbean island, a mega-yacht, and a stable of thoroughbred racehorses whose success is the envy of many of the monarchs, aristocrats, and heads of state that he counts among his high-society friends. Dubbed a “playboy” by the British papers, he recently divorced his second wife after a 10-year legal battle.
One thing the Aga Khan is not, however, is a willing interviewee. The media-shy Prince Karim—known as “K” to friends and “His Highness” to everyone else—avoids the press whenever he can. But when one reaches the 60th year of heading an Imamate, as Prince Karim does today, then needs must.
And so, your correspondent recently found himself on a call with His Highness and four other reporters from outlets around the world. As a de facto head of a state with no territory, whose people are spread across dozens of countries, the Aga Khan avoids directly tackling sensitive political subjects and generally steers clear of speaking about world leaders by name. He ended the call by noting that “my comments can’t be as complete as I might want them to be.”
It was with an impressively eloquent vagueness—and the odd moment of rambling—that the 80-year-old leader touched on topics like the fairness of the Western financial system, the links between climate change and poverty, and the need for pluralism in this ethnically charged world. Quartz then spoke with Mahmoud Eboo, his representative to Canada and chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum, to untangle and expand on Prince Karim’s stances.
Pluralism as the path to peace and development
The Aga Khan has chosen the promotion of pluralism—which he defines as “equity towards all peoples and backgrounds”—as one of the central themes of his Diamond Jubilee year. He argues that the countries his foundation works with are historically pluralist and suffer now from ethnic and religious divides stoked by colonialism. “I’m old enough to recollect colonial situations where colonial powers on purpose separated the ethnic groups in a given country in order to maintain rule,” he says. “That inherited situation needs to be dealt with.”
More...
https://qz.com/1025313/a-rare-interview ... ing-islam/
His Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan, is many things.
“Virtually a one-man state,” as Vanity Fair once put it, he’s the spiritual leader of the world’s 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims and a unique embodiment of the potential for East blending with West. He inherited from his Indian-born grandfather a dynasty that spans the Muslim world, but he is a British citizen, born in Switzerland, raised in Kenya, educated at Harvard, and lives in a French chateau.
A reported descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, he has dedicated his life to fighting poverty and heads one of the world’s most active development foundations, reaching millions of people in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East each year via the Aga Khan Development Network.
At the same time, he is the billionaire owner of a private Caribbean island, a mega-yacht, and a stable of thoroughbred racehorses whose success is the envy of many of the monarchs, aristocrats, and heads of state that he counts among his high-society friends. Dubbed a “playboy” by the British papers, he recently divorced his second wife after a 10-year legal battle.
One thing the Aga Khan is not, however, is a willing interviewee. The media-shy Prince Karim—known as “K” to friends and “His Highness” to everyone else—avoids the press whenever he can. But when one reaches the 60th year of heading an Imamate, as Prince Karim does today, then needs must.
And so, your correspondent recently found himself on a call with His Highness and four other reporters from outlets around the world. As a de facto head of a state with no territory, whose people are spread across dozens of countries, the Aga Khan avoids directly tackling sensitive political subjects and generally steers clear of speaking about world leaders by name. He ended the call by noting that “my comments can’t be as complete as I might want them to be.”
It was with an impressively eloquent vagueness—and the odd moment of rambling—that the 80-year-old leader touched on topics like the fairness of the Western financial system, the links between climate change and poverty, and the need for pluralism in this ethnically charged world. Quartz then spoke with Mahmoud Eboo, his representative to Canada and chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum, to untangle and expand on Prince Karim’s stances.
Pluralism as the path to peace and development
The Aga Khan has chosen the promotion of pluralism—which he defines as “equity towards all peoples and backgrounds”—as one of the central themes of his Diamond Jubilee year. He argues that the countries his foundation works with are historically pluralist and suffer now from ethnic and religious divides stoked by colonialism. “I’m old enough to recollect colonial situations where colonial powers on purpose separated the ethnic groups in a given country in order to maintain rule,” he says. “That inherited situation needs to be dealt with.”
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https://qz.com/1025313/a-rare-interview ... ing-islam/
The Aga Khan Diamond Jubilee: Special connection for Uganda Ismailis
By Vali Jamal
I looked recently at our newspapers to find if any attempt was made in the coverage of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee (60 years of ascending the throne of the Ismaili Imamat on July 11) to show the importance of the landmark for Uganda Ismailis and even Uganda. What we got was the standard material about what the Aga Khan Development Network does in Uganda. Lots, but without that special connection, the story is like “Hamlet without the Prince”.
Allow me to fill in two connecting - and connected - events which make the observance of the Diamond Jubilee so emotion-packed for Uganda Ismailis everywhere. The first is that one ceremony for the coronation of the Aga Khan had perforce to be performed on the grounds of the Ismaili jamatkhana (prayer house) in Kampala because of a last-minute objection by the Lukiiko against a non-Baganda king being coronated on public Buganda land. The original site chosen was Nakivubo stadium.
Just in 10 days or so, volunteers came together from all villages to build the stage. Exams were very near, but we spent as much time as we could on the grounds of the jamatkhana and during the days of the ceremony itself. Because of the small size of the compound, the emotions could be seen on every face and on every mouth, the story was of the “miracle” that was actually happening. A band had come from Pakistan who wore Scottish kilts and played bagpipes.
The old Aga Khan’s Begum joined in the celebrations at night.
Fifteen years later (February 1972), the same jamatkhana was the scene of the Imam’s visit to his jamat and within just another six months, of the Asian expulsion. I was in Uganda that year collecting data for my dissertation at Stanford. The special Aga Khan angle in the expulsion starts with the fact that a majority of Ismailis had taken out Uganda citizenship on the guidance of the Imam himself and were rendered stateless in the verification exercise. Things were frantic as people went from one embassy to another to find a host country. Then the rumour that the Canadians were coming came true – and that then brings us the very special Aga Khan angle in the story.
The Canadian mission set up in the Aga Khan’s IPS (Industrial Promotion Services) building, no less. In writing a book I came across the diary of the chief of the Canadian mission that had come to process us – Roger St Vincent. I took lots of extracts out of it to make the story come alive. The Aga Khan’s role is evident there and it also comes through in people’s own stories. My parents and elder sister and brother-in-law passed the Canadian interviews. Younger sister and husband wanted to stay on their accepted Uganda citizenship, but were scared off when gunmen appeared at their gate. They too secured Canadian visas.
There is more of the Aga Khan angle! Unknown to most people, at the last week of the expulsion deadline, some 6,000 Uganda Asians were practically stateless as they had given up on their plans to stay on in Uganda on their confirmed citizenship, or were handicapped or of mixed race and practically abandoned by their families. Amin was ratcheting up the rhetoric: So you want to stay on in Uganda? Feel welcome to go dig the shambas. The UNHCR advised people to simply throw away their Uganda passports and report at their staging posts.
The Aga Khan’s uncle Prince Sadruddin was the head of the HCR at that time. Within just a week or so, the HCR took away the 6,000 or so stateless Uganda Asians and sheltered them in centres in five European countries. At this time, UNHCR were dealing with 500,000 displaced persons from Southern Sudan and yet they devoted so much attention to us! The Aga Khan and UNHCR are accorded “hero” status in my book, along with Canadian prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau.
There is a sequel even less often brought out: The 7,000 or so Uganda Asians (of all sects) that Canada took were the first batch of non-white refugees they were accepting, against sporadic opposition from the right-wingers. Within just six months or so of arriving in Canada, the refugees had found their own feet in business and professions, so much so that the next Canadian prime minister Chretien, was quoted as ruing why more of the Uganda Asians had not come to settle in his constituency.
But there is more: Our successful resettlement in Canada encouraged Canada to accept thousands of refugees from Vietnam and that then contributed to Canada incorporating multiculturism in its law in 1987.
And that encouraged His Highness the Aga Khan in establishing the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa, rather than what at that time was seen as its “natural” setting – London. Quite evidently, the Global Centre is a celebration of what Canada is, and the Uganda Asian resettlement done under no other than the Aga Khan contributed to it!
So much to remember in Uganda at this landmark jubilee of our Imam! Our Uganda jamat now consists of only 250 or so “original” Uganda Ismailis, swamped by 10 times as many “newcomer” Ismailis from India and Pakistan. I am quite certain as many Uganda Ismailis living in the diaspora countries will come for the jubilee ceremonies to make this a happy reunion.
We can be sure many of the stories above will be remembered. Uganda’s “pluralism” too, under President Museveni’s repossession overture to the departed Asians will be celebrated then. What a win-win!
Dr Jamal was a senior research economist, UN-ILO, 1976-2001. vali.jamal@yahoo.com
http://www.monitor.co.ug/OpEd/Commentar ... index.html
By Vali Jamal
I looked recently at our newspapers to find if any attempt was made in the coverage of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee (60 years of ascending the throne of the Ismaili Imamat on July 11) to show the importance of the landmark for Uganda Ismailis and even Uganda. What we got was the standard material about what the Aga Khan Development Network does in Uganda. Lots, but without that special connection, the story is like “Hamlet without the Prince”.
Allow me to fill in two connecting - and connected - events which make the observance of the Diamond Jubilee so emotion-packed for Uganda Ismailis everywhere. The first is that one ceremony for the coronation of the Aga Khan had perforce to be performed on the grounds of the Ismaili jamatkhana (prayer house) in Kampala because of a last-minute objection by the Lukiiko against a non-Baganda king being coronated on public Buganda land. The original site chosen was Nakivubo stadium.
Just in 10 days or so, volunteers came together from all villages to build the stage. Exams were very near, but we spent as much time as we could on the grounds of the jamatkhana and during the days of the ceremony itself. Because of the small size of the compound, the emotions could be seen on every face and on every mouth, the story was of the “miracle” that was actually happening. A band had come from Pakistan who wore Scottish kilts and played bagpipes.
The old Aga Khan’s Begum joined in the celebrations at night.
Fifteen years later (February 1972), the same jamatkhana was the scene of the Imam’s visit to his jamat and within just another six months, of the Asian expulsion. I was in Uganda that year collecting data for my dissertation at Stanford. The special Aga Khan angle in the expulsion starts with the fact that a majority of Ismailis had taken out Uganda citizenship on the guidance of the Imam himself and were rendered stateless in the verification exercise. Things were frantic as people went from one embassy to another to find a host country. Then the rumour that the Canadians were coming came true – and that then brings us the very special Aga Khan angle in the story.
The Canadian mission set up in the Aga Khan’s IPS (Industrial Promotion Services) building, no less. In writing a book I came across the diary of the chief of the Canadian mission that had come to process us – Roger St Vincent. I took lots of extracts out of it to make the story come alive. The Aga Khan’s role is evident there and it also comes through in people’s own stories. My parents and elder sister and brother-in-law passed the Canadian interviews. Younger sister and husband wanted to stay on their accepted Uganda citizenship, but were scared off when gunmen appeared at their gate. They too secured Canadian visas.
There is more of the Aga Khan angle! Unknown to most people, at the last week of the expulsion deadline, some 6,000 Uganda Asians were practically stateless as they had given up on their plans to stay on in Uganda on their confirmed citizenship, or were handicapped or of mixed race and practically abandoned by their families. Amin was ratcheting up the rhetoric: So you want to stay on in Uganda? Feel welcome to go dig the shambas. The UNHCR advised people to simply throw away their Uganda passports and report at their staging posts.
The Aga Khan’s uncle Prince Sadruddin was the head of the HCR at that time. Within just a week or so, the HCR took away the 6,000 or so stateless Uganda Asians and sheltered them in centres in five European countries. At this time, UNHCR were dealing with 500,000 displaced persons from Southern Sudan and yet they devoted so much attention to us! The Aga Khan and UNHCR are accorded “hero” status in my book, along with Canadian prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau.
There is a sequel even less often brought out: The 7,000 or so Uganda Asians (of all sects) that Canada took were the first batch of non-white refugees they were accepting, against sporadic opposition from the right-wingers. Within just six months or so of arriving in Canada, the refugees had found their own feet in business and professions, so much so that the next Canadian prime minister Chretien, was quoted as ruing why more of the Uganda Asians had not come to settle in his constituency.
But there is more: Our successful resettlement in Canada encouraged Canada to accept thousands of refugees from Vietnam and that then contributed to Canada incorporating multiculturism in its law in 1987.
And that encouraged His Highness the Aga Khan in establishing the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa, rather than what at that time was seen as its “natural” setting – London. Quite evidently, the Global Centre is a celebration of what Canada is, and the Uganda Asian resettlement done under no other than the Aga Khan contributed to it!
So much to remember in Uganda at this landmark jubilee of our Imam! Our Uganda jamat now consists of only 250 or so “original” Uganda Ismailis, swamped by 10 times as many “newcomer” Ismailis from India and Pakistan. I am quite certain as many Uganda Ismailis living in the diaspora countries will come for the jubilee ceremonies to make this a happy reunion.
We can be sure many of the stories above will be remembered. Uganda’s “pluralism” too, under President Museveni’s repossession overture to the departed Asians will be celebrated then. What a win-win!
Dr Jamal was a senior research economist, UN-ILO, 1976-2001. vali.jamal@yahoo.com
http://www.monitor.co.ug/OpEd/Commentar ... index.html
https://www.newvision.co.ug/new_vision/ ... itizenship
Friday,October 06,2017
KCCA to award Aga Khan with honorary citizenship
By John Semakula
Added 16th June 2017 12:43 PM
The Honorary citizenship is a status bestowed by a country on a foreign individual whom it considers to be admirable or otherwise worthy of the distinction.
President Yoweri Museveni (left) and His Highness the Aga Khan laying the foundation stone for Bujagali Hydro Power Project, Jinja in 2007. Photo/File
His Highness the Aga Khan is set to receive an Honorary Citizenship of Kampala.
The New Vision has learnt that KCCA has resolved to bestow the prestigious award to the Aga Khan during a special council meeting on Monday.
The Honorary citizenship is a status bestowed by a country on a foreign individual whom it considers to be admirable or otherwise worthy of the distinction.
Asked to explain what the award means, KCCA acting director of communication, Peter Kaujju told New Vision that the details will be revealed at a later stage.
But he explained that this will be the first time that KCCA is giving out such an award to a reputable figure.
The issue of bestowing the award to the Agha Khan was first brought to the attention of the KCCA councillors by the Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago.
Lukwago said KCCA had been requested to award the Aga Khan with either an Honorary Citizenship of Kampala or the Freedom of Kampala City Award. But the Lord Mayor did not reveal the person or office that asked KCCA to recognise the Aga Khan. Lukwago described the Aga Khan as a development partner of KCCA.
New Vision has learnt that Prince Shah Karim Al Husseini Agha Khan IV, the 49th Imam of Nizari Ismailis will receive the award in recognition of the development roles the Foundation has played in Kampala, Uganda.
But in his comment Jacob Siminyu, the Public Relations officer of the Immigration Department said that the Constitution is silent about honorary citizenship.
Siminyu noted that they derive citizenship from Chapter three of the Constitution.
“The types highlighted in the Constitution are citizenship by birth, adoption, naturalization and dual citizenship,” he said before asking Lukwago to explain honorary citizenship.
The Aga Khan Foundation has operated a chain of multi-billion investments in Uganda for more than 70 years. The foundation portfolio includes investments in businesses, education, media, health, hotels and power generation.
Lukwago said the Aga Khan will receive the award as part of the package of Uganda National Honours as he celebrates 60 years of accession to the throne of Ismaili Imamat.
“I therefore request management to handle this matter and accordingly brief us on the modalities,” Lukwago said.
The Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development owns the 250MW Bujagali Hydro power Plant constructed at a cost of USD 900 million and is building a sh100m hospital in Nakawa Division, Kampala.
KCCA said the award will be handed over to the Aga Khan Foundation.
Kaujju said the process of awarding the Aga Khan has started. “There is a proposal and records by the authority. The Authority asked us to prepare and arrange to award the Aga Khan upon his contribution to humanity and development in Kampala,” Kaujju said.
He added that the KCCA’s technical team was already making the necessary consultations to see how the award will be bestowed to the Aga Khan.
In the same vein, government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo described KCCA move as the right step in the right direction. “That is the practice in many cities. It is meant to demonstrate that if you are a person of distinguished profile, you will be recognized even in countries where you do not have citizenship,” Opondo said.
He also expressed optimism that when the Aga Khan comes to receive his award, he will be accompanied by followers who may decide to invest more in Uganda.
Efforts to speak to the Aghan Foundation in Uganda about the issue were futile as the official contacts picked from their website went through unpicked.
New Vision has learnt that the Aga Khan holds another honorary citizenship of Canada, which was awarded to him by former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2009.
President Yoweri Museveni is also said to hold an honorary citizen of the State of Washington in the United States of America.
Friday,October 06,2017
KCCA to award Aga Khan with honorary citizenship
By John Semakula
Added 16th June 2017 12:43 PM
The Honorary citizenship is a status bestowed by a country on a foreign individual whom it considers to be admirable or otherwise worthy of the distinction.
President Yoweri Museveni (left) and His Highness the Aga Khan laying the foundation stone for Bujagali Hydro Power Project, Jinja in 2007. Photo/File
His Highness the Aga Khan is set to receive an Honorary Citizenship of Kampala.
The New Vision has learnt that KCCA has resolved to bestow the prestigious award to the Aga Khan during a special council meeting on Monday.
The Honorary citizenship is a status bestowed by a country on a foreign individual whom it considers to be admirable or otherwise worthy of the distinction.
Asked to explain what the award means, KCCA acting director of communication, Peter Kaujju told New Vision that the details will be revealed at a later stage.
But he explained that this will be the first time that KCCA is giving out such an award to a reputable figure.
The issue of bestowing the award to the Agha Khan was first brought to the attention of the KCCA councillors by the Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago.
Lukwago said KCCA had been requested to award the Aga Khan with either an Honorary Citizenship of Kampala or the Freedom of Kampala City Award. But the Lord Mayor did not reveal the person or office that asked KCCA to recognise the Aga Khan. Lukwago described the Aga Khan as a development partner of KCCA.
New Vision has learnt that Prince Shah Karim Al Husseini Agha Khan IV, the 49th Imam of Nizari Ismailis will receive the award in recognition of the development roles the Foundation has played in Kampala, Uganda.
But in his comment Jacob Siminyu, the Public Relations officer of the Immigration Department said that the Constitution is silent about honorary citizenship.
Siminyu noted that they derive citizenship from Chapter three of the Constitution.
“The types highlighted in the Constitution are citizenship by birth, adoption, naturalization and dual citizenship,” he said before asking Lukwago to explain honorary citizenship.
The Aga Khan Foundation has operated a chain of multi-billion investments in Uganda for more than 70 years. The foundation portfolio includes investments in businesses, education, media, health, hotels and power generation.
Lukwago said the Aga Khan will receive the award as part of the package of Uganda National Honours as he celebrates 60 years of accession to the throne of Ismaili Imamat.
“I therefore request management to handle this matter and accordingly brief us on the modalities,” Lukwago said.
The Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development owns the 250MW Bujagali Hydro power Plant constructed at a cost of USD 900 million and is building a sh100m hospital in Nakawa Division, Kampala.
KCCA said the award will be handed over to the Aga Khan Foundation.
Kaujju said the process of awarding the Aga Khan has started. “There is a proposal and records by the authority. The Authority asked us to prepare and arrange to award the Aga Khan upon his contribution to humanity and development in Kampala,” Kaujju said.
He added that the KCCA’s technical team was already making the necessary consultations to see how the award will be bestowed to the Aga Khan.
In the same vein, government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo described KCCA move as the right step in the right direction. “That is the practice in many cities. It is meant to demonstrate that if you are a person of distinguished profile, you will be recognized even in countries where you do not have citizenship,” Opondo said.
He also expressed optimism that when the Aga Khan comes to receive his award, he will be accompanied by followers who may decide to invest more in Uganda.
Efforts to speak to the Aghan Foundation in Uganda about the issue were futile as the official contacts picked from their website went through unpicked.
New Vision has learnt that the Aga Khan holds another honorary citizenship of Canada, which was awarded to him by former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2009.
President Yoweri Museveni is also said to hold an honorary citizen of the State of Washington in the United States of America.
His Highness the Aga Khan to grace Uganda’s 55th Independence Anniversary
His Highness the Aga Khan, 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) arrives this weekend as a special guest to Uganda’s 55th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
This year’s celebrations will be held at Bushenyi Municipal Grounds under the theme, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and Commitment”.
President Yoweri Museveni in a special invitation to His Highness the Aga Khan thanked God for keeping him for all these years and for his contribution to Uganda’s development. The Aga Khan, who is also the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, is this year, commemorating his Diamond Jubilee, (His 60th anniversary as Imam).
“I understand that soon you will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of your enthronement as the spiritual leader of the Shai Imami Ismaili community. It is great that God has kept you for all these years and you have contributed so much to Uganda’s development in the past and present,” the President wrote.
The Aga Khan was enthroned on 11 July 1957, at the age of 20. He succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III.
He will be decorated with the most excellent order of the Pearl of Africa medal during the Independence celebrations for his colossal contributions to Uganda’s development and to humanity.
Through the Agha Khan Development Network, His Highness has made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of Ugandans by providing access to high-quality education, health, hydroelectric power, media services (NTV, KFM, Daily Monitor, The East African), civil society, financial inclusion and hospitality (Serena Hotels).
The AKDN has a long history in Uganda spanning over 100 years in Uganda and East Africa.
Its activities in the country range from infrastructure projects including the Bujagali Hydroelectric Power Project, the country's first private hydroelectric power project, to a holistic early childhood education programme that operates in underprivileged communities, and from an advanced nursing studies programme to providing essential pharmaceuticals.
Distributed by APO on behalf of State House Uganda.
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/4081488 ... nniversary
His Highness the Aga Khan, 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) arrives this weekend as a special guest to Uganda’s 55th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
This year’s celebrations will be held at Bushenyi Municipal Grounds under the theme, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and Commitment”.
President Yoweri Museveni in a special invitation to His Highness the Aga Khan thanked God for keeping him for all these years and for his contribution to Uganda’s development. The Aga Khan, who is also the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, is this year, commemorating his Diamond Jubilee, (His 60th anniversary as Imam).
“I understand that soon you will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of your enthronement as the spiritual leader of the Shai Imami Ismaili community. It is great that God has kept you for all these years and you have contributed so much to Uganda’s development in the past and present,” the President wrote.
The Aga Khan was enthroned on 11 July 1957, at the age of 20. He succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III.
He will be decorated with the most excellent order of the Pearl of Africa medal during the Independence celebrations for his colossal contributions to Uganda’s development and to humanity.
Through the Agha Khan Development Network, His Highness has made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of Ugandans by providing access to high-quality education, health, hydroelectric power, media services (NTV, KFM, Daily Monitor, The East African), civil society, financial inclusion and hospitality (Serena Hotels).
The AKDN has a long history in Uganda spanning over 100 years in Uganda and East Africa.
Its activities in the country range from infrastructure projects including the Bujagali Hydroelectric Power Project, the country's first private hydroelectric power project, to a holistic early childhood education programme that operates in underprivileged communities, and from an advanced nursing studies programme to providing essential pharmaceuticals.
Distributed by APO on behalf of State House Uganda.
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/4081488 ... nniversary
2017, October 8: Kampala, Uganda - H.H. The Aga Khan is welcomed at his arrival at Entebbe Airport by President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. NTV Video is on this link
https://youtu.be/xgZm5NH5p5k
https://youtu.be/xgZm5NH5p5k
http://statehouse.go.ug/media/news/2017 ... -agha-khan
President Museveni receives His Highness the Agha Khan
Sunday 8th October 2017
PPU
President Yoweri Museveni has received His Highness the Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe.
The Aga Khan is in the country at the invitation of President Museveni as Uganda celebrates her 55th independence anniversary from British colonial rule.
President Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest. His Highness the Aga Khan will be a special guest during Uganda independence anniversary celebrations in Bushenyi during which he will be bestowed with a medal in recognition of his exceptional efforts towards the economic development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district.
His Highness, the Agha Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
President Museveni receives His Highness the Agha Khan
Sunday 8th October 2017
PPU
President Yoweri Museveni has received His Highness the Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe.
The Aga Khan is in the country at the invitation of President Museveni as Uganda celebrates her 55th independence anniversary from British colonial rule.
President Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest. His Highness the Aga Khan will be a special guest during Uganda independence anniversary celebrations in Bushenyi during which he will be bestowed with a medal in recognition of his exceptional efforts towards the economic development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district.
His Highness, the Agha Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.
THE.ISMAILI | 07 October 2017| GLOBAL
Video: Mawlana Hazar Imam arrives in Uganda
https://the.ismaili/news/video-mawlana- ... ves-uganda
8 October 2017 - Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Uganda this afternoon for his first Diamond Jubilee visit.
The Attorney General, Hon. William Byarhanga welcomed him to Uganda, and Ismaili Council for Uganda President Minaz Jamal welcomed him on behalf of the Jamat. The AKDN Resident Representative Amin Mawji and other Jamati leaders were also present at the airport.
8 October 2017 - Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Uganda this afternoon for his first Diamond Jubilee visit.
The Attorney General, Hon. William Byarhanga welcomed him to Uganda and Ismaili Council for Uganda President Minaz Jamal welcomed him on behalf of the Jamat. The AKDN Resident Representative Amin Mawji and other Jamati leaders were also present at the airport.
In a colourful ceremony at Entebbe airport, the Uganda Police Band played the Nashid al Imamah and the Ugandan National Anthem and Mawlana Hazar Imam walked past a Guard of Honour. Local dancers also performed a traditional greeting.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is in Uganda at the invitation of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. After leaving the airport, Hazar Imam called on the President at State House Entebbe. Tomorrow, he will accompany the President to a celebration of Uganda's 55th Independence in Bushenyi.
While in Uganda, Mawlana Hazar Imam is expected to grace the Jamat with the first Darbar of his Diamond Jubilee year, which marks 60 years of his Imamat as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
https://the.ismaili/news/mawlana-hazar- ... s-uganda-1
Video: Mawlana Hazar Imam arrives in Uganda
https://the.ismaili/news/video-mawlana- ... ves-uganda
8 October 2017 - Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Uganda this afternoon for his first Diamond Jubilee visit.
The Attorney General, Hon. William Byarhanga welcomed him to Uganda, and Ismaili Council for Uganda President Minaz Jamal welcomed him on behalf of the Jamat. The AKDN Resident Representative Amin Mawji and other Jamati leaders were also present at the airport.
8 October 2017 - Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Uganda this afternoon for his first Diamond Jubilee visit.
The Attorney General, Hon. William Byarhanga welcomed him to Uganda and Ismaili Council for Uganda President Minaz Jamal welcomed him on behalf of the Jamat. The AKDN Resident Representative Amin Mawji and other Jamati leaders were also present at the airport.
In a colourful ceremony at Entebbe airport, the Uganda Police Band played the Nashid al Imamah and the Ugandan National Anthem and Mawlana Hazar Imam walked past a Guard of Honour. Local dancers also performed a traditional greeting.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is in Uganda at the invitation of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. After leaving the airport, Hazar Imam called on the President at State House Entebbe. Tomorrow, he will accompany the President to a celebration of Uganda's 55th Independence in Bushenyi.
While in Uganda, Mawlana Hazar Imam is expected to grace the Jamat with the first Darbar of his Diamond Jubilee year, which marks 60 years of his Imamat as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
https://the.ismaili/news/mawlana-hazar- ... s-uganda-1
Last edited by kmaherali on Sun Oct 08, 2017 11:17 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Aga Khan here for 55th Uhuru celebrations
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Aga Khan has arrived to join Ugandans as they celebrate their 55th Independence Day, October 9. He is a special guest at Monday’s celebrations in Bushenyi and will receive an honor for the economic contributions he has made to the Uganda.
President Yoweri Museveni on Sunday received The Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe. Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district. The theme for this year’s independence is, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment.”
The Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. (Full profile page 2)
Profile: The Aga Khan
In the context of his hereditary responsibilities, The Aga Khan has been deeply engaged with the development of countries around the world for close to 60 years through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), writes akdn.org.
The AKDN is a group of private, international, non-denominational agencies working to improve living conditions and opportunities for people in specific regions of the developing world. The Network’s organisations have individual mandates that range from the fields of health and education to architecture, rural development and the promotion of private-sector enterprise.
Together, they work towards a common goal – to build institutions and programmes that can respond to the challenges of social, economic and cultural change on an on-going basis. The AKDN works in close partnership with public and private institutions, including amongst others, governments, international organisations, companies, foundations, and universities.
More..
https://www.independent.co.ug/aga-khan- ... ebrations/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... 2pKY01ddME
His Highness Aga Khan arrives ahead of Independence Day celebrations
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Aga Khan has arrived to join Ugandans as they celebrate their 55th Independence Day, October 9. He is a special guest at Monday’s celebrations in Bushenyi and will receive an honor for the economic contributions he has made to the Uganda.
President Yoweri Museveni on Sunday received The Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe. Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district. The theme for this year’s independence is, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment.”
The Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. (Full profile page 2)
Profile: The Aga Khan
In the context of his hereditary responsibilities, The Aga Khan has been deeply engaged with the development of countries around the world for close to 60 years through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), writes akdn.org.
The AKDN is a group of private, international, non-denominational agencies working to improve living conditions and opportunities for people in specific regions of the developing world. The Network’s organisations have individual mandates that range from the fields of health and education to architecture, rural development and the promotion of private-sector enterprise.
Together, they work towards a common goal – to build institutions and programmes that can respond to the challenges of social, economic and cultural change on an on-going basis. The AKDN works in close partnership with public and private institutions, including amongst others, governments, international organisations, companies, foundations, and universities.
More..
https://www.independent.co.ug/aga-khan- ... ebrations/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... 2pKY01ddME
His Highness Aga Khan arrives ahead of Independence Day celebrations
HH Aga Khan Diamond Jubilee, 1957-2017, Uganda awards
By Vali Jamal, PhD, author of Uganda Asians book
What is enfolding is drama at world scale as some very high national honours will be conferred on the Aga Khan, and others announced in what is officially a State Visit. In consequence of this, Uganda is the very first country in the world the Aga Khan is visiting during his Diamond Jubilee year – July 11 2017 to July 11 2018. The government of Uganda is joining the Ismaili community – and Uganda Asians everywhere – in honouring the Imam for the 6o years of his reign. By so doing, government of Uganda is reinforcing the embrace of the Asian community’s role in Uganda’s socio-economic development in a pluralistic setting dear to the Aga Khan.
Those with a sense of history will see in this an acknowledgment of the roles of the Ismaili community and the Asian community in Uganda’s development from the start of the Protectorate. It was under the guidance of the Ismaili 46th Imam Hassan Ali Shah Aga Khan I (the present Aga Khan’s grandfather’s grandfather) that Ismailis began migrating to East Africa. The great Allidina Visram, (“King of Commerce” in East Africa) was among them. Aga Hassan Ali Shah’s grandson Aga Khan III (present Aga Khan’s grandfather) took up the theme of the necessity to migrate to Afrika even more vigorously. Kampala’s first Ismaili jamatkhana was established at mid-1910s in Nakasero, not far from Allidina’s first shop. Some adjoining rooms were used as school, the first Indian school in Uganda. The modern buildings in Makerere Valley opened only in the early 1950s. The Aga Khan schools were the first among Indian schools to open up to Africans.
It’s the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa Medal that will be bestowed upon the Aga Khan. It is Uganda’s highest medal in the form of a chain (10kg gold) given to Heads of State only. HH Aga Khan is being recognized as such.
The present Aga Khan has two close personal relationships to Uganda. He never fails to recall in his speeches that one ceremony of his Takhtnashini (coronation) took place in Kampala (August 1957) on the grounds of the jamatkhana itself, as in a last-minute decision the Lukiko (Kabaka’s government) decreed that no non-Baganda king could be coronated on public Baganda land. In the second case the Aga Khan played a crucial role at the Uganda Asian expulsion (1972), by urging upon his friend Canadian prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau to come to the rescue of the stateless Asians, a majority of whom were Ismailis who had taken out Uganda citizenship under the guidance of the Aga Khan. The Canadian mission set up their offices in the Aga Khan’s Industrial Promotion Services (IPS) building, no less. If we bring in the fact that the Aga Khan’s uncle Prince Sadruddin played an even more dramatic role as head of the UNHCR ( High Commission for Refugees) in the last-minute evacuation of six thousand or so stateless people then the Uganda expulsion story is very much an Aga Khan family story and that is being recognized this week.
The story continues after the expulsion. His Highness was one of the first Asian leaders President Museveni sought out to come and repossess his social properties (schools and dispensaries) and thus to show the Ismailis Uganda was again in the favour of the Imam. The Aga Khan reciprocated by rehabilitating the Nile Mansions into the iconic Serena Hotel and then in a major way by undertaking the construction of the Bujagali hydro project. Environmentalists had been thwarting President Museveni, abetted by the World Bank and none other than the Spirit of Bujagali who threatened to divert the waters. The opening of the dam (October 8, 2012) was a highlight day for the President as 260MW of power came on stream, cutting the brown-out time from 30 percent to 2-3 hours per week now and again to extend lines.
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan - Diamond Jubilee, 1957-2017: Uganda Awards - By Vali JamalIt’s the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa Medal that will be bestowed upon the Aga Khan. It is Uganda’s highest medal in the form of a chain (10kg gold) given to Heads of State only. HH Aga Khan is being recognized as such. City Council of Kampala has already announced the award of the Freedom of Kampala City and the Parliament and Makerere University will confer awards that fall in their domains. The recognitions are to the Aga Khan first and foremost, but they are also a reiteration of President Museveni’s resolve that the Ugandan economy be as plural as possible after the nightmare of the expulsion. ALL Uganda Asian communities and even multinational corporations should exult at this, not just Ismailis.
Vali Jamal, Kenya citizen, Uganda resident since 1946, BA Cambridge 1964, Assistant Secretary Uganda Ministry of Commerce and Industry 1964-67, PhD Stanford 1976 (data collected at Makerere 1972), Senior Economist, UN-ILO 1976-2001. Author: UGANDA ASIANS: Then and Now, Here and There, We Contributed, We Contribute.
ismailimail.wordpress.com/2017/10/08/his-highness-prince-karim-aga-khan-diamond-jubilee-1957-2017-uganda-awards-by-vali-jamal/
By Vali Jamal, PhD, author of Uganda Asians book
What is enfolding is drama at world scale as some very high national honours will be conferred on the Aga Khan, and others announced in what is officially a State Visit. In consequence of this, Uganda is the very first country in the world the Aga Khan is visiting during his Diamond Jubilee year – July 11 2017 to July 11 2018. The government of Uganda is joining the Ismaili community – and Uganda Asians everywhere – in honouring the Imam for the 6o years of his reign. By so doing, government of Uganda is reinforcing the embrace of the Asian community’s role in Uganda’s socio-economic development in a pluralistic setting dear to the Aga Khan.
Those with a sense of history will see in this an acknowledgment of the roles of the Ismaili community and the Asian community in Uganda’s development from the start of the Protectorate. It was under the guidance of the Ismaili 46th Imam Hassan Ali Shah Aga Khan I (the present Aga Khan’s grandfather’s grandfather) that Ismailis began migrating to East Africa. The great Allidina Visram, (“King of Commerce” in East Africa) was among them. Aga Hassan Ali Shah’s grandson Aga Khan III (present Aga Khan’s grandfather) took up the theme of the necessity to migrate to Afrika even more vigorously. Kampala’s first Ismaili jamatkhana was established at mid-1910s in Nakasero, not far from Allidina’s first shop. Some adjoining rooms were used as school, the first Indian school in Uganda. The modern buildings in Makerere Valley opened only in the early 1950s. The Aga Khan schools were the first among Indian schools to open up to Africans.
It’s the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa Medal that will be bestowed upon the Aga Khan. It is Uganda’s highest medal in the form of a chain (10kg gold) given to Heads of State only. HH Aga Khan is being recognized as such.
The present Aga Khan has two close personal relationships to Uganda. He never fails to recall in his speeches that one ceremony of his Takhtnashini (coronation) took place in Kampala (August 1957) on the grounds of the jamatkhana itself, as in a last-minute decision the Lukiko (Kabaka’s government) decreed that no non-Baganda king could be coronated on public Baganda land. In the second case the Aga Khan played a crucial role at the Uganda Asian expulsion (1972), by urging upon his friend Canadian prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau to come to the rescue of the stateless Asians, a majority of whom were Ismailis who had taken out Uganda citizenship under the guidance of the Aga Khan. The Canadian mission set up their offices in the Aga Khan’s Industrial Promotion Services (IPS) building, no less. If we bring in the fact that the Aga Khan’s uncle Prince Sadruddin played an even more dramatic role as head of the UNHCR ( High Commission for Refugees) in the last-minute evacuation of six thousand or so stateless people then the Uganda expulsion story is very much an Aga Khan family story and that is being recognized this week.
The story continues after the expulsion. His Highness was one of the first Asian leaders President Museveni sought out to come and repossess his social properties (schools and dispensaries) and thus to show the Ismailis Uganda was again in the favour of the Imam. The Aga Khan reciprocated by rehabilitating the Nile Mansions into the iconic Serena Hotel and then in a major way by undertaking the construction of the Bujagali hydro project. Environmentalists had been thwarting President Museveni, abetted by the World Bank and none other than the Spirit of Bujagali who threatened to divert the waters. The opening of the dam (October 8, 2012) was a highlight day for the President as 260MW of power came on stream, cutting the brown-out time from 30 percent to 2-3 hours per week now and again to extend lines.
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan - Diamond Jubilee, 1957-2017: Uganda Awards - By Vali JamalIt’s the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa Medal that will be bestowed upon the Aga Khan. It is Uganda’s highest medal in the form of a chain (10kg gold) given to Heads of State only. HH Aga Khan is being recognized as such. City Council of Kampala has already announced the award of the Freedom of Kampala City and the Parliament and Makerere University will confer awards that fall in their domains. The recognitions are to the Aga Khan first and foremost, but they are also a reiteration of President Museveni’s resolve that the Ugandan economy be as plural as possible after the nightmare of the expulsion. ALL Uganda Asian communities and even multinational corporations should exult at this, not just Ismailis.
Vali Jamal, Kenya citizen, Uganda resident since 1946, BA Cambridge 1964, Assistant Secretary Uganda Ministry of Commerce and Industry 1964-67, PhD Stanford 1976 (data collected at Makerere 1972), Senior Economist, UN-ILO 1976-2001. Author: UGANDA ASIANS: Then and Now, Here and There, We Contributed, We Contribute.
ismailimail.wordpress.com/2017/10/08/his-highness-prince-karim-aga-khan-diamond-jubilee-1957-2017-uganda-awards-by-vali-jamal/
Why the Aga Khan deserves Uganda’s highest civilian honour
By Stephen Kafeero
When he takes to the podium to be honoured today, it won’t be by accident or even a miracle; it will be tribute to decades of work and contribution His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has done in Uganda that have outlived many post-independent governments.
The Aga Khan, who is the Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismaili Muslims, arrived in the country yesterday ahead of today’s 55th Independence anniversary and held a brief meeting with President Museveni and other senior government officials at State House Entebbe.
Earlier, during a media briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, Presidency minister Esther Mbayo hinted on why Uganda was honouring His Highness the Aga Khan. “He will receive a special honour because of the immense economic contributions he has made to our country and indeed the whole world,” Ms Mbayo said.
Recognition
He will be decorated with the “Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa” medal during the celebrations for his huge contribution to Uganda’s development and to humanity.
The medal, according to the National Honours and Awards Act, 2001, is given to Heads of State and Heads of Government. A full citation, as dictated by law, shall be made clearly indicating the reason for the award during the celebrations.
Past recipients include presidents Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Theodore Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (Equatorial Guinea) both awarded in 2012, Armando Guebuza (Mozambique) in 2013 and Julius Nyerere and Jakaya Kikwete (Tanzania) in 2007.
This year’s celebrations will be held at Bushenyi Municipal Grounds under the theme, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment”.
His Highness Aga Khan has made outstanding contribution to furthering the understanding and progress of human development in Uganda and the wider East African region. Choosing to return to Uganda as he marks the Diamond Jubilee, or 60 years, in office as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims shows how much importance he attaches to Uganda and her people.
The Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims in 1957 at the age of 20. Since taking on his role in 1957, he has dedicated his efforts to improving the quality of life of the most vulnerable populations, while emphasising the view of Islam as a thinking, spiritual faith: one that teaches compassion and tolerance and that upholds human dignity.
In recognition of his exceptional efforts and contributions to human development and improving the social condition of societies globally, the Aga Khan has over the last six decades, received numerous decorations, honorary degrees, and awards from institutions and nations across the world.
He has been deeply engaged in the development of countries around the world through the work of his Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). He and his grandfather before him, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, have had a presence in Uganda and the region for more than a hundred years.
The immense contribution of the Aga Khan and the Ismaili Imamat to Uganda has included social development (education, nursing, healthcare, civil society strengthening, and rural support), infrastructure development, tourism promotion, industrial promotion, financial services development, media for development and cultural development.
The initiatives demonstrate the Aga Khan’s long-term commitment to the development of Uganda. In the last decade alone, the total development investment made in Uganda by the portfolio entities of AKDN, including resources of AKDN partner organisations and lenders, amounts to more than $1 billion or Shs3.6 trillion. In addition to delivering strong developmental outcomes, the AKDN agency companies are also among the highest tax-payers in Uganda today. Yet, the Aga Khan and the Ismaili Imamat draw out no financial returns from these investments as all financial surpluses are re-invested in development work.
Dedication
Throughout his 60-year period of Imamat, His Highness has, in partnership with government, tirelessly promoted development, working to improve the lives of people regardless of religion, origin, gender or tribe. His ambition has been to strive for world-class standards for all Ugandans and the region.
A central feature of his unique approach has been to design and implement strategies in which the different agencies of his development network integrate their activities in order to reinforce each other’s efforts and impact.
Take education as an example. The Aga Khan has long displayed a deep and unwavering commitment to Uganda. AKDN has been involved in education in Uganda since the 1930s when the first Aga Khan schools were established.
Projects
Over the years, AKDN’s contribution to the education sector has expanded to include a continuum of services from early childhood education at the grassroots level, to high-quality tertiary education where students, teachers and school management all benefit from the various formation initiatives.
Since its inception in 1993, the early childhood programme has increased the ability of more than 20,000 children from marginalised communities to access and succeed in primary and later schooling, through fostering pre-school environments in children’s formative early years. AKDN agencies also provide training, research, programme design and policy formation support to the government. His faith in this nation and the leadership of President Museveni led to the return of a number of Ismaili families who have now made Uganda their home. Under the guidance of The Aga Khan, the Ismaili community stands out today for its unstinting loyalty to Uganda and its enormous contribution to the economic progress of the country.
http://www.monitor.co.ug/SpecialReports ... index.html
By Stephen Kafeero
When he takes to the podium to be honoured today, it won’t be by accident or even a miracle; it will be tribute to decades of work and contribution His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has done in Uganda that have outlived many post-independent governments.
The Aga Khan, who is the Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismaili Muslims, arrived in the country yesterday ahead of today’s 55th Independence anniversary and held a brief meeting with President Museveni and other senior government officials at State House Entebbe.
Earlier, during a media briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, Presidency minister Esther Mbayo hinted on why Uganda was honouring His Highness the Aga Khan. “He will receive a special honour because of the immense economic contributions he has made to our country and indeed the whole world,” Ms Mbayo said.
Recognition
He will be decorated with the “Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa” medal during the celebrations for his huge contribution to Uganda’s development and to humanity.
The medal, according to the National Honours and Awards Act, 2001, is given to Heads of State and Heads of Government. A full citation, as dictated by law, shall be made clearly indicating the reason for the award during the celebrations.
Past recipients include presidents Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Theodore Obiang Nguema Mbasogo (Equatorial Guinea) both awarded in 2012, Armando Guebuza (Mozambique) in 2013 and Julius Nyerere and Jakaya Kikwete (Tanzania) in 2007.
This year’s celebrations will be held at Bushenyi Municipal Grounds under the theme, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment”.
His Highness Aga Khan has made outstanding contribution to furthering the understanding and progress of human development in Uganda and the wider East African region. Choosing to return to Uganda as he marks the Diamond Jubilee, or 60 years, in office as the 49th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslims shows how much importance he attaches to Uganda and her people.
The Aga Khan succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, as Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims in 1957 at the age of 20. Since taking on his role in 1957, he has dedicated his efforts to improving the quality of life of the most vulnerable populations, while emphasising the view of Islam as a thinking, spiritual faith: one that teaches compassion and tolerance and that upholds human dignity.
In recognition of his exceptional efforts and contributions to human development and improving the social condition of societies globally, the Aga Khan has over the last six decades, received numerous decorations, honorary degrees, and awards from institutions and nations across the world.
He has been deeply engaged in the development of countries around the world through the work of his Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). He and his grandfather before him, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, have had a presence in Uganda and the region for more than a hundred years.
The immense contribution of the Aga Khan and the Ismaili Imamat to Uganda has included social development (education, nursing, healthcare, civil society strengthening, and rural support), infrastructure development, tourism promotion, industrial promotion, financial services development, media for development and cultural development.
The initiatives demonstrate the Aga Khan’s long-term commitment to the development of Uganda. In the last decade alone, the total development investment made in Uganda by the portfolio entities of AKDN, including resources of AKDN partner organisations and lenders, amounts to more than $1 billion or Shs3.6 trillion. In addition to delivering strong developmental outcomes, the AKDN agency companies are also among the highest tax-payers in Uganda today. Yet, the Aga Khan and the Ismaili Imamat draw out no financial returns from these investments as all financial surpluses are re-invested in development work.
Dedication
Throughout his 60-year period of Imamat, His Highness has, in partnership with government, tirelessly promoted development, working to improve the lives of people regardless of religion, origin, gender or tribe. His ambition has been to strive for world-class standards for all Ugandans and the region.
A central feature of his unique approach has been to design and implement strategies in which the different agencies of his development network integrate their activities in order to reinforce each other’s efforts and impact.
Take education as an example. The Aga Khan has long displayed a deep and unwavering commitment to Uganda. AKDN has been involved in education in Uganda since the 1930s when the first Aga Khan schools were established.
Projects
Over the years, AKDN’s contribution to the education sector has expanded to include a continuum of services from early childhood education at the grassroots level, to high-quality tertiary education where students, teachers and school management all benefit from the various formation initiatives.
Since its inception in 1993, the early childhood programme has increased the ability of more than 20,000 children from marginalised communities to access and succeed in primary and later schooling, through fostering pre-school environments in children’s formative early years. AKDN agencies also provide training, research, programme design and policy formation support to the government. His faith in this nation and the leadership of President Museveni led to the return of a number of Ismaili families who have now made Uganda their home. Under the guidance of The Aga Khan, the Ismaili community stands out today for its unstinting loyalty to Uganda and its enormous contribution to the economic progress of the country.
http://www.monitor.co.ug/SpecialReports ... index.html
https://www.independent.co.ug/
8 October 2017
The Independent
Museveni welcomes The Aga Khan to Uganda at State House.
PHOTO PPU
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Aga Khan has arrived to join Ugandans as they celebrate their 55th Independence Day, October 9. He is a special guest at Monday’s celebrations in Bushenyi and will receive an honour for his contribution to the social and economic development of Uganda.
President Yoweri Museveni on Sunday received The Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe. Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district. The theme for this year’s independence is, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment.”
The Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. (Full profile page 2)
Ugandans will on the 9/10/17 celebrate their 55th Independence Day or what is commonly referred to as self rule
8 October 2017
The Independent
Museveni welcomes The Aga Khan to Uganda at State House.
PHOTO PPU
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Aga Khan has arrived to join Ugandans as they celebrate their 55th Independence Day, October 9. He is a special guest at Monday’s celebrations in Bushenyi and will receive an honour for his contribution to the social and economic development of Uganda.
President Yoweri Museveni on Sunday received The Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe. Museveni and his guest briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district. The theme for this year’s independence is, “Uganda’s freedom must be anchored in the spirit of hard work, resilience and commitment.”
The Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary spiritual leader (Imam) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. (Full profile page 2)
Ugandans will on the 9/10/17 celebrate their 55th Independence Day or what is commonly referred to as self rule
Last edited by Admin on Mon Oct 09, 2017 2:14 am, edited 1 time in total.
https://www.newvision.co.ug/new_vision/ ... lebrations
The Aga Khan to grace Independence Day celebrations
By Vision Reporter
Added 9th October 2017 08:36 AM
The Aga Khan was invited by President Yoweri Museveni.
PIC: Attorney General William Byaruhanga receives the Aga Khan at Entebbe Airport yesterday evening. (Credit: William Rujuta)
INDEPENDENCE | AGA KHAN
His Highness the Aga Khan, who is spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim Community, arrived in Uganda yesterday on a four-day visit as a special guest during the celebrations to mark Uganda’s 55th Independence from British rule.
The Aga Khan, who was invited by President Yoweri Museveni, was received on arrival at Entebbe International Airport yesterday evening by the Attorney General, William Byaruhanga and other dignitaries.
President Museveni later received His Highness the Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe.
Museveni and the Aga Khan briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest. The Aga Khan will be a special guest during Uganda independence anniversary celebrations in Bushenyi district, during which he will be bestowed with a medal in recognition of his exceptional efforts towards the economic development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district.
According to statement released by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) yesterday, the visit is part of a series of visits that coincide with the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee, which began July 11. The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of his Imamat as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community. The Aga Khan became the Imam on July 11, 1957 at the age of 20, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan.
PIC: The Aga Khan inspecting a guard of hounour mounted by Uganda Police at Entebbe Airport. (Credit: William Rujuta)
Upon his arrival at Entebbe Airport, the Uganda Police Band played the Ugandan National Anthem and Nashid al Imamah, following which the Aga Khan walked through a Guard of Honour. After leaving the airport, the Aga Khan travelled to State House Entebbe where he was received by His Excellency Preisdent Yoweri Museveni.
His Highness the Aga Khan is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) – a global network dedicated to improving the quality of life of all people that has made substantive contributions towards the development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) has a long history in Uganda, working in education, healthcare, economic development and civil society, programmes supported by the government and other partners.
The Aga Khan will also meet with members of the Shia Ismaili Community in Uganda as part of his itinerary.
The Aga Khan to grace Independence Day celebrations
By Vision Reporter
Added 9th October 2017 08:36 AM
The Aga Khan was invited by President Yoweri Museveni.
PIC: Attorney General William Byaruhanga receives the Aga Khan at Entebbe Airport yesterday evening. (Credit: William Rujuta)
INDEPENDENCE | AGA KHAN
His Highness the Aga Khan, who is spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim Community, arrived in Uganda yesterday on a four-day visit as a special guest during the celebrations to mark Uganda’s 55th Independence from British rule.
The Aga Khan, who was invited by President Yoweri Museveni, was received on arrival at Entebbe International Airport yesterday evening by the Attorney General, William Byaruhanga and other dignitaries.
President Museveni later received His Highness the Aga Khan and his delegation at State House Entebbe.
Museveni and the Aga Khan briefly held discussions on matters of mutual interest. The Aga Khan will be a special guest during Uganda independence anniversary celebrations in Bushenyi district, during which he will be bestowed with a medal in recognition of his exceptional efforts towards the economic development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan told his host that he was looking forward to attending Uganda’s historical event of her independence in Bushenyi district.
According to statement released by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) yesterday, the visit is part of a series of visits that coincide with the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee, which began July 11. The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of his Imamat as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community. The Aga Khan became the Imam on July 11, 1957 at the age of 20, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan.
PIC: The Aga Khan inspecting a guard of hounour mounted by Uganda Police at Entebbe Airport. (Credit: William Rujuta)
Upon his arrival at Entebbe Airport, the Uganda Police Band played the Ugandan National Anthem and Nashid al Imamah, following which the Aga Khan walked through a Guard of Honour. After leaving the airport, the Aga Khan travelled to State House Entebbe where he was received by His Excellency Preisdent Yoweri Museveni.
His Highness the Aga Khan is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) – a global network dedicated to improving the quality of life of all people that has made substantive contributions towards the development of Uganda.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) has a long history in Uganda, working in education, healthcare, economic development and civil society, programmes supported by the government and other partners.
The Aga Khan will also meet with members of the Shia Ismaili Community in Uganda as part of his itinerary.
H.H. The Aga Khan arrival in Kampala on 8th October 2017.
H.H. The Aga Khan arrived in Kampala on 8th October 2017.
LIVE!!
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Uganda Celebrates 55 years of Independence
https://twitter.com/ShukharMowla
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SXtv9mNjt0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SXtv9mNjt0
Uganda Celebrates 55 years of Independence
https://twitter.com/ShukharMowla
Aga Khan due in the country tomorrow
By The Citizen Reporter @TheCitizenTz news@tz.nationmedia.com
Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is expected in the country on Wednesday October 11 for a two-day official visit.
The visit follows an invitation which was extended by President John Magufuli.
The Aga Khan who is the Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Imam Ismaili Muslims is in the country on his second leg of his East Africa Tour.
According to a statement issued by the Aga Khan Development Network he is expected to land at the Julius Nyerere International Airport around 10.30 am and received by Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Dr Augustine Mahiga.
The visit is part of a series of visits that coincide with the commemoration of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee which marks 60 years as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
Jubilees in the Shia Ismaili Muslim tradition have traditionally served as opportunities to launch or advance social, cultural and economic development projects
“These include hospitals, schools, universities and financial institutions that serve people of all backgrounds and faiths,” read the statement.
Aga Khan is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) a global network dedicated to improving the quality of life of all.
It has made substantive contributions all over the world, including in Tanzania where it has a longstanding history.
The AKDN’s institutions are among Tanzania’s largest socio-economic agencies and impact the lives of all Tanzanians. Some of these examples include the Aga Khan
Foundation’s endeavours to increase income opportunities for over 100,000 smallholder farmers and over 9,200 community-based savings groups in Southern Tanzania.
“The Aga Khan health services has the country’s top state-of- the-art hospital in Dar es Salaam, as well as five primary medical centres and 8 outreach centres across the country that have provided increased access to health for communities in rural and urban areas,” read further the statement.
The Aga Khan University, through the Graduate School of Nursing and Midwifery and the Institution of Educational Development, has awarded over 250 Master’s Degrees and educated over 3,000 trainers in Tanzania.
In Zanzibar, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture restored the seafront Forodhani Park and engaged in conservation planning for the Old Dispensary, amongst others, as AKDN promotes culture as a ‘trampoline for change’ for development.
The Aga Khan arrived from Kampala where he attended the Independence Day celebration upon the invitation of the Excellency President Yoweri Museveni and was decorated with the highest civilian Ugandan order, The Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa, The Grand Master, for his humanitarian efforts.
While in Dar es Salaam, the Aga Khan will also meet members of his community.
http://www.thecitizen.co.tz/News/Aga-Kh ... index.html
By The Citizen Reporter @TheCitizenTz news@tz.nationmedia.com
Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is expected in the country on Wednesday October 11 for a two-day official visit.
The visit follows an invitation which was extended by President John Magufuli.
The Aga Khan who is the Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Imam Ismaili Muslims is in the country on his second leg of his East Africa Tour.
According to a statement issued by the Aga Khan Development Network he is expected to land at the Julius Nyerere International Airport around 10.30 am and received by Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Dr Augustine Mahiga.
The visit is part of a series of visits that coincide with the commemoration of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee which marks 60 years as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
Jubilees in the Shia Ismaili Muslim tradition have traditionally served as opportunities to launch or advance social, cultural and economic development projects
“These include hospitals, schools, universities and financial institutions that serve people of all backgrounds and faiths,” read the statement.
Aga Khan is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) a global network dedicated to improving the quality of life of all.
It has made substantive contributions all over the world, including in Tanzania where it has a longstanding history.
The AKDN’s institutions are among Tanzania’s largest socio-economic agencies and impact the lives of all Tanzanians. Some of these examples include the Aga Khan
Foundation’s endeavours to increase income opportunities for over 100,000 smallholder farmers and over 9,200 community-based savings groups in Southern Tanzania.
“The Aga Khan health services has the country’s top state-of- the-art hospital in Dar es Salaam, as well as five primary medical centres and 8 outreach centres across the country that have provided increased access to health for communities in rural and urban areas,” read further the statement.
The Aga Khan University, through the Graduate School of Nursing and Midwifery and the Institution of Educational Development, has awarded over 250 Master’s Degrees and educated over 3,000 trainers in Tanzania.
In Zanzibar, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture restored the seafront Forodhani Park and engaged in conservation planning for the Old Dispensary, amongst others, as AKDN promotes culture as a ‘trampoline for change’ for development.
The Aga Khan arrived from Kampala where he attended the Independence Day celebration upon the invitation of the Excellency President Yoweri Museveni and was decorated with the highest civilian Ugandan order, The Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa, The Grand Master, for his humanitarian efforts.
While in Dar es Salaam, the Aga Khan will also meet members of his community.
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