The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a group of private, non-denominational, development agencies working to improve the quality of life for people—particularly in Asia and Africa—regardless of their faith, origin, or gender. It was founded and is led by His Highness the Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.

Here are key details about the AKDN:

1. Founding and Mission

• Founded by: His Highness the Aga Khan IV

• Established in: 1967

• Mission: To improve living conditions and opportunities for the poor, without regard to their faith, origin, or gender.

• Philosophy: Holistic, long-term, and locally-driven development.

2. Core Areas of Work

AKDN operates across multiple sectors:

a. Economic Development

• Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED): Invests in infrastructure, tourism, finance, and industry to spur sustainable economic growth.

• Support for SMEs and microfinance.

b. Health

• Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) and Aga Khan University (AKU) provide:

  • Hospitals, clinics, and outreach programs.

  • Medical education and research.

  • Maternal and child health programs.

c. Education

• Aga Khan Education Services (AKES): Runs more than 200 schools and educational programs.

• Aga Khan Academies: Network of residential schools providing leadership-focused education.

• Aga Khan University (AKU): International university with campuses in multiple countries.

• Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU-ISMC) in London.

d. Culture

• Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC):

  • Restores historic sites and public spaces.

  • Organizes cultural events (e.g., Aga Khan Music Programme).

  • Promotes architecture through the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

e. Rural Development and Environment

• Aga Khan Foundation (AKF): Focuses on agriculture, food security, natural resource management, and civil society strengthening.

• Disaster preparedness and resilience programs.

3. Geographic Presence

• Active in over 30 countries, especially in:

  • South and Central Asia (e.g., Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Tajikistan)

  • East and West Africa (e.g., Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique)

  • Middle East (e.g., Syria, Egypt)

  • Europe and North America (for education, culture, and partnerships)

4. Funding and Approach

• AKDN is primarily privately funded, including significant financial support from the Aga Khan himself.

• Collaborates with governments, NGOs, and multilateral agencies.

• Emphasizes sustainability, capacity building, and local partnerships.

5. Unique Characteristics

• Faith-inspired, not faith-based: While guided by Islamic ethics and principles of compassion and stewardship, it serves people of all backgrounds.

• Integrated approach: Combines economic, social, and cultural development.

• Long-term commitment: Many AKDN projects span decades and are deeply rooted in the communities they serve.