Aga Khan Foundation

The Aga Khan Foundation: Empowering communities for a brighter future

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) is a globally recognized non-profit organization founded by the Aga Khan IV, spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community. Driven by Islamic principles of compassion and social justice, the AKF works to empower marginalized people in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Origins and Goals

The AKF was established in 1967 as an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). It exists to address the social, economic, and cultural challenges faced by these communities through a multi-faceted approach.

Focus Areas:

• Health: Ensuring access to quality healthcare, sanitation, and maternal and child health services.
• Education: Empowering children and adults with access to quality education and vocational training.
• Livelihoods: Enhancing agricultural productivity, providing microfinance opportunities, and promoting sustainable resource management.
• Governance and Economic Inclusion: Strengthening community governance, promoting gender equality, and empowering marginalized groups.

Notable Achievements:

The AKF has made significant strides in its pursuit of its goals. Some notable achievements include:

• Improved access to healthcare, reaching over 4 million people with essential services.
• Provided educational opportunities for over 1.5 million children and adults.
• Supported the creation of over 850,000 new income-generating opportunities.
• Assisted in the empowerment of women through skills training and access to finance.

Collaboration and Partnerships:

The AKF works in partnerships with governments, private sector organizations, and other NGOs to enhance its impact and achieve lasting change.

Sustainability and Transparency:

The AKF operates on a cost-effective model, ensuring that over 90% of its funding goes directly to program activities. Additionally, it adheres to strict financial reporting and auditing standards.

FAQs:

1. What is the Aga Khan Foundation’s mission?

The mission of the AKF is to empower marginalized communities through sustainable development initiatives.

2. Where does the AKF work?

The AKF operates in 35 countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

3. What are the AKF’s main areas of focus?
The AKF focuses on healthcare, education, livelihoods, and governance and economic inclusion.

4. How does the AKF ensure sustainability?

The AKF utilizes cost-effective models and partners with stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of its programs.

5. What is the funding model of the AKF?

The AKF relies on contributions from individuals, governments, and private sector organizations.