Ruto Awards Aga Khan Network for Advancing Health and Education in Kenya

President William Ruto holds a meeting with His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V at State House Nairobi on August 26th./PCS

President William Ruto has commended the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for its transformative work in Kenya’s health and education sectors, praising the network’s long-standing partnership with the government.

During a meeting with His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, the newly installed 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, President Ruto highlighted the network’s impact on communities across the country.

“The Aga Khan Development Network has built a healthcare presence that reaches deep into communities, offering maternal and child health services that save countless lives,” Ruto said.

“Its commitment to higher education and training is equipping our doctors, nurses, and specialists with world-class skills.”

Following that, Ruto presented Prince Rahim Aga Khan V with the Chief of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.) award, recognizing the network’s exceptional contributions to Kenya’s development.

President William Ruto and His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V during a Meeting in State House on August 26th/PCS

“For decades, the partnership between the Government of Kenya and the Ismaili Imamat has strengthened communities, saved lives, and nurtured talent,” Ruto said.

“With the new leadership of Prince Rahim Aga Khan, we are confident that these programs will continue to expand, touching even more lives across the nation.”

AKDN operates three major hospitals and more than 70 health centres in Kenya, providing care to over 900,000 patients annually.

In collaboration with the Social Health Authority, the network has expanded access to kidney transplants and advanced cardiac surgeries, ensuring vulnerable Kenyans receive lifesaving procedures without facing crippling medical costs.

On the education front, the Aga Khan Foundation has supported nearly 1,000 public schools, benefiting hundreds of thousands of pupils and teachers. Initiatives like Schools2030, co-hosted by Kenya this year, reinforce the government and AKDN’s shared commitment to innovation and excellence in education.

President Ruto also acknowledged Princess Zahra Aga Khan, who recently received the Elder of the Golden Heart (E.G.H.) award, for her leadership in health, education, and social development in Kenya and beyond.

“These partnerships align with our Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which seeks equity, opportunity, and dignity for all Kenyans,” Ruto said.

“Through collaboration with organizations like the Aga Khan Development Network, we are able to deliver meaningful change in healthcare, education, and community development.”