The Aga Khan has died at the age of 88, his charity the Aga Khan Development Network has announced. Born in 1936, Prince Karim Aga Khan was the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, who trace his lineage directly to the Prophet Muhammad.

In a statement, the Aga Khan Development Network said he "passed away peacefully" in Lisbon, Portugal, surrounded by his family.

Prince Karim Aga Khan was born in Switzerland, held a British citizenship and lived in a chateau in France. He succeeded his grandfather as imam of the Ismaili Muslims in 1957 at a young age of 20.

In Kenya, the Aga Khan Development Network has presence across a number of industries including finance, media, healthcare, insurance, education as well as manufacturing. Some of the outstanding investments under The Aga Khan are the Nation Media Group, Diamond Trust Bank, The Aga Khan University Hospital, and hospitality giant TPS Eastern Africa. 

"He was an extraordinary leader who went beyond what seemed impossible to help the vulnerable — through his charities in hospitals and schools," said President William Ruto in his message of condolence.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guteres said the Aga Khan was a symbol of peace worldwide, stating, "I am deeply saddened by the news that His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, has passed away. He was a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world."

"He was an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity, and I know his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched," noted Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada.

Globally, charities under the Aga Khan managed hundreds of schools, hospitals, hotels and cultural projects.

According to the BBC, Prince Karim Aga Khan enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, with a private island in the Bahamas, a super-yacht and a private jet.

The Aga Khan Development Network said it offered its "condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide".

"We continue to work with our partners to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as he wished, irrespective of their religious affiliations or origins," the network added.

Prince Karim Aga Khan was the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, estimated at about 15 million people spread in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Africa and other parts of the world.

[email protected]