What We Do

Nearly half of the world’s population — more than 3.5 billion people — live on less than $2.50 a day. More than 700 million people live in extreme poverty (less than USD $1.90 a day), the majority of whom are in Africa and Asia.

Aga Khan Foundation Canada tackles the root causes of this poverty through a holistic and interconnected set of programs. These initiatives address people’s most pressing needs and enable them to unlock their full potential, with a particular focus on marginalized groups like women and girls.

Our programs aim to ensure access to high-quality education and health care, ensure food security, improve economic well-being, and develop resilient communities and societies. We bring together human, financial, and technical resources to some of the poorest and most marginalized communities, with an emphasis on women and girls, investing in human potential, expanding opportunity, and improving quality of life.

25 years of transforming lives, one young Canadian at a time

In 2015, our 25th cohort of fellows returned from their eight months abroad.

Caring connections: the power of eHealth

When Mavjuda required an ear exam, she paid a visit to Dr. Akmal Abdulmajidov in the small town of Khorog, Tajikistan.

Welcoming the class of 2021: The University of Central Asia launches its first undergraduate program

Classes are officially underway at the University of Central Asia’s first undergraduate program in Naryn, Kyrgyz Republic. The inaugural cohort of 71 students is hitting the books – with a unique curriculum that has a Canadian connection.

Gallery: Strengthening Education Systems in East Africa

Primary school enrollment in East Africa has improved significantly, but the number of children in class only tells part of the story. For students to get the most out of school, they need a quality education system with well-trained teachers and staff.

Girls’ Education: Investing in Afghanistan’s Future

Every country needs leaders who are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to build a solid foundation for development.

How a Glass of Water Can Be Deadly

March 22 marks World Water Day. Most Canadians use water every day without thinking twice: to quench thirst, prepare meals, and bathe. But in the developing world – where clean, safe water can be scarce – these simple daily routines put lives at risk.

Communities Reading Together for Children

It might look like a plain white metal cabinet. But for children living in this rural village in Kenya, it is a window to the world.

Crafting a brighter future for families in Mozambique

Sufo designs and crafts intricate silver jewellery in his workshop and sells the pieces to earn a living for him and his family. He uses his earnings to buy books, school materials, and food.

Meet the Toymaker of Kashka-Suu

In his rural home in the Kyrgyz Republic, Kurbanaliev Abutalip crouches in front of a makeshift work bench and spreads out his materials: scraps of wood, empty plastic bottles, nails, hammers, screwdrivers, and a saw.