By Moses Ndhaye & Samuel Ssebuliba
The government of Uganda has awarded His Highness the Aga Khan the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa medal, which is Uganda’s highest civilian honour.
President Yoweri Museveni decorated the Aga Khan at Bushenyi were the main event of Uganda’s 55th the independence anniversary is taking place.
The Aga Khan has been recognized for his contribution to the country’s development, especially in the education sector, health, and media among others.
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The Aga Khan is the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and the 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual Leader) of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims.
The nine other people who were recognized and awarded medals for their contribution include Major General Jim Muhwezi who has been recognized for his contribution in the military, the late Eric Otema Alimadi among others.
Meanwhile, the Aga Khan has praised Uganda for its courteous gesture towards the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims community in Uganda.
Speaking during the ongoing independence celebrations His Highness the Aga Khan said that his community has enjoyed a friendly environment for decades.
He said that Uganda has had a long journey to where it is now, but all indicators show that the future is bright.