The Aga Khan will visit Kenya next month as part of his worldwide Golden Jubilee celebrations.
The spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims will be a guest of President Kibaki, at the start of the celebrations which will last for one year; from July 11 2007 to July 11, 2008.
During the period, the Aga Khan is expected to accept invitations from other Heads of State for official visits to 35 countries, which have long standing and close relations with the Imamat.
Establish schools
The spiritual leader will also use the occasion to inaugurate a number of major projects and initiatives and set the foundation for others, in addition to meeting with Ismaili community.
Yesterday, Vice-President Moody Awori, assured the Kenya resident representative of the Aga Khan Development Network, Mr Aziz Bhaloo, of the Government’s support saying the Aga Khan had provided exemplary leadership.
“The Aga Khan has done a lot in the world, here in Kenya he has established quality schools which have admitted the disadvantaged.”
Mr Awori also praised the network for providing quality and affordable health services to the public in many parts of the country.
The VP was addressing guests, who included Local Government minister Musikari Kombo in Nairobi, during a reception to unveil plans for the Golden Jubilee celebrations.
Mr Bhaloo said July 11, 2007, was a special day for the network as it marked commencement of the celebrations.
That was the day in 1957 when the Aga Khan become the spiritual leader - Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, at the age of 20.
He succeeded his grandfather, the late sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan, described by the official as a leader of international stature and prominence.
“To commemorate the Golden Jubilee, His Highness will visit Kenya at the invitation of President Kibaki, as well as other parts of the world, meet with Heads of State and senior government ministers,” said Mr Bhaloo.
Support projects
During the forthcoming tour, the Aga Khan will also review the network’s projects and meet the Ismailia community.
“We are happy and proud that Kenya will be the first country to be visited by His Highness during the Golden jubilee year,” the official said.
He also expressed gratitude to the Government for supporting their activities and programmes.