President William Ruto has honoured the newly appointed leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, with Kenya’s highest civilian award, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), in recognition of decades of service and partnership between the Ismaili Imamat and Kenya.
At a colourful ceremony held at State House, Nairobi, the President praised the Imamat for being a steadfast ally in Kenya’s development journey, noting that its institutions have consistently invested in healthcare, education, environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
In the past three years alone, the partnership has seen health facilities serve over 900,000 patients annually, nearly 1,000 public schools supported and more than 1.5 million trees planted across the country.
“This is not just a gesture of philanthropy; it is an enduring commitment to the well-being of our people,” President Ruto said.
“Prince Rahim and the Ismaili Imamat represent values of service, compassion, and progress. By bestowing this honour, Kenya is expressing deep gratitude for decades of transformative work that has touched millions of lives,” Ruto further stated.
The ceremony also recognised Princess Zahra Aga Khan, who was awarded the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.), Kenya’s second-highest civilian honour.
Princess Zahra, the daughter of the late Aga Khan IV, has devoted her career to championing social progress, particularly in health and education. Through her leadership roles in the Aga Khan Development Network, she has worked closely with communities and governments to expand access to quality healthcare and education, leaving a lasting impact on Kenyan society.
Her award was described as a fitting tribute to a lifetime of service.
“Princess Zahra has quietly but powerfully advanced initiatives that uplift the vulnerable and strengthen our social fabric,” President Ruto said.
Beyond honouring the Aga Khan family, the event also set the stage for future cooperation. The President revealed that the government is working with the Imamat to expand partnerships in the Affordable Housing Programme, a flagship agenda expected to provide thousands of safe homes and create jobs for Kenyans. Collaboration is also underway in the Nairobi River Regeneration project through the Climate WorX initiative, which already engages 40,000 Kenyans in restoring degraded ecosystems and rejuvenating the capital city.
For many observers, the ceremony marked more than a diplomatic gesture; it was an affirmation of a unique relationship that has spanned generations.
The Order of the Golden Heart is rarely bestowed, reserved only for individuals who have made profound contributions to the country’s progress and reputation. Past recipients include heads of state and global leaders whose legacies align with Kenya’s vision for unity and development.
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