Ruto confers His Highness Aga Khan with Kenya’s most prestigious award
His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has officially been conferred Kenya’s highest Presidential Civil Honour, Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
Prince Rahim arrived at the State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, the first time since his inception.
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During the ceremony, Prince Rahim expressed gratitude for the recognition and the warm welcome on his first visit to East Africa since assuming his role as the 49th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
“I am grateful to President William Ruto for the warm hospitality extended to me on my first visit to East Africa since my inception as the Ismaili Imami earlier this year,” said Aga Khan.
He highlighted the deep historical connection between the Aga Khan family and Kenya, noting that his grandfather and uncle spent their childhoods in Nairobi and that his late father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, held fond memories of the country.
“Kenya has always held a very special place in the hearts of my family; some of the earliest development projects from the time of my great-grandfather were launched in this country, and many of these are still operating,” he added.
Aga Khan family ties to Kenya
Further revealing, “His Highness, my grandfather, spent his early childhood in Nairobi, and like my uncle Prince Amin, who also spent his childhood in Nairobi, my father always cherished beautiful memories of this wonderful country.”
He also acknowledged that for over a century, members of the Ismaili community have called Kenya home, contributing to its progress while drawing strength from its diversity.
“For over a century, members of the Ismaili community have called this country home; they have contributed to Kenya’s progress, drawing its inspiration from diversity. It is against this backdrop that I am profoundly honoured to be named the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart award,” he stated.
Similarly, while accepting the honour with deep humility, he recalled that his father also received the same award during his Golden Jubilee in 2007 from former President Mwai Kibaki.
“This recognition carries added significance to me because my father, who is the late, was also named the Chief of the Golden Heart by former President Mwai Kibaki during his golden jubilee; therefore, I accept this grand honor with deep humility and gratitude,” he stated.
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