Kalonzo: Aga Khan invested where others hesitated
His Highness The Aga Khan (left) listens to former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka at the KICC during the Pan Africa Media Conference.
What you need to know:
- Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka pays tribute to the late Aga Khan IV, recognising his pivotal role in Kenya's health, education and media sectors, and his global commitment to peace and development.
- He paid tribute to the Aga Khan's commitment to press freedom through the Nation Media Group, noting his support in difficult times and his understanding of the role of the media in national stability.
The Wiper Democratic Movement party leader and Kenya’s former vice president Kalonzo Musyoka has paid tribute to the His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, who died this week in Portugal, praising his contribution to Kenya’s development and his impact on the global stage.
Mr Musyoka, who also served as Kenya’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, recalled working with the Aga Khan in the two portfolios as well as his previous role as Minister of Education.
Mr Musyoka praised the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for its contributions to Kenya and noted that during his tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs, the government granted AKDN diplomatic status.
“It was not easy to negotiate that protocol, but looking back, the wisdom of that decision is clear. The Aga Khan Development Network has had a lasting and transformative impact on Kenya. The Aga Khan’s contributions to the Ismailia community in Kenya and the broader region have been extraordinary,” Mr Musyoka said at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi when he signed a condolence book.
He was accompanied by former Defence Minister Eugene Wamalwa.
Mr Musyoka emphasized the significant advancements made in healthcare, crediting the Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi for offering cutting-edge medical services.
“Many people don’t realise that Kenyans no longer need to travel to South Africa or India for cancer diagnosis. The PET scan at Aga Khan Hospital has changed the game, offering top-tier medical services right here at home,” he said, referring to the positron emission tomography (PET) machine that can help reveal the metabolic or biochemical function of body tissues and organs.
He celebrated the Aga Khan’s efforts in international peace and interfaith dialogue, acknowledging his commitment to humanity.
“He was more than a leader—he was a visionary who saw the value in unity, peace, and service. His contributions will be remembered, and while we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life that touched millions,” he said.
Beyond healthcare, he recognized the Aga Khan’s investments in various sectors, including media, citing his contributions to press freedom through the Nation Media Group.
“During difficult times, when the media faced pressure, the Aga Khan stood firm. He understood that a free press is essential for democracy. He invested in areas where others hesitated, knowing that strong media institutions contribute to national stability,” Mr Musyoka said.
He also shared memories of his visit to the Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi and the teaching hospital there, which inspired the establishment of a local branch of the Aga Khan University.
“Through a Cabinet memo, we secured approval for a branch in Kenya, which has since grown from a nursing school to a fully-chartered university,” he added.