President William Ruto has awarded the Chief of the Elder of the Golden Heart (EGH) award to Princess Zahra Aga Khan for her exemplary performance in education, health and public service.

Speaking at the State House in Nairobi during the investiture event on Friday, February 13, 2026, President Ruto congratulated Her Highness Princess Zahra Aga Khan on receiving the honour. Ruto has said that the nation recognises humanitarian efforts by the Aga Khan Development Group in developing the health and education sectors in Kenya.

“Your Highness, on behalf of the government and the people of Kenya, I extend my warmest congratulations to you, Your Highness Princess Zahra Aga Khan, on being conferred with this Chief of the Elder of the Golden Heart (EGH). This honour recognises your outstanding leadership and sustained health, education and social development pillars that are central to human dignity and shared progress,” Ruto said.

President Ruto has hailed the Aga Khan Development Network for its contribution to health and education, which has been key in nurturing and saving lives in the country.

While receiving the honour, Princess Zahra Aga Khan, the chancellor of the Aga Khan University, said her family has a long history with Kenya and has built many institutions in various areas in Kenya. She has described Kenya as one of the most vibrant countries in Africa.

Princess Aga Khan has expressed interest in the Aga Khan Development Network group to continue partnering with different public sectors to foster development in Kenya.

In August 2025, President Ruto also honoured His Highness Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V with Kenya’s highest civilian honour, the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH), during his first official visit to Kenya since assuming leadership of the Shia Ismaili Imamat.

President Ruto has said that the award of the two honours affirms Kenya’s recognition and continued interest in collaboration between the government and the Aga Khan Development Network to advance Kenya’s development.