Govt lauds Aga Khan

Government has commended the Aga Khan Development Network for its tremendous contribution to the overall development of the country through its multifaceted investments.

“It is this kind of visionary thinking and the deep investment of His Highness the Aga Khan through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) that is redefining the potential of the developing world,” said Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi.
Mr Mbabazi made the remarks during celebrations to mark 54 years of His Highness the Aga Khan since he became the 49th Imam of the Worldwide Shia Ismaili Muslim Community on the Imamat Day, in Kampala on Tuesday.

The Interrelationship
Mr Mbabazi said it is also important to recognise the interrelationship between the social and economic programmes of the AKDN.

He said the direction of AKDN in various areas of investment are aligned with the government’s national development priorities in areas of infrastructure development through energy and transportation as well as building human capacity through education and healthcare.

Mr Mbabazi described the Agha Khan as a firm believer in the potential of Africa.

He said the leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community is also an advocate of excellence in development and has emphasised the importance of achieving global standards in the developing world.

Mr Mahmood Ahmed, a representative of the Aga Khan Development Network Uganda, said the Ismaili Imamat has devoted its energy and effort towards addressing issues about humanity. It also seeks to demonstrate by example those values, ethics and principles which seek to fulfil mankind’s duty.

“The AKDN is the contemporary expression of the human values which are realised through our many projects and initiatives, particularly in the developing world. This is often in partnership with the countries and organisations you represent and anchored by AKDN’s diplomatic presence in a number of countries, including Uganda,” Mr Ahmed said.

Ethical literacy
He asked for ethical literacy as one necessary dimension for the building of strong and lasting institutions in Uganda.
“Building institutions is a vital component of development and has very far reaching consequences if handled correctly,” he said.