The Aga Khan was keen to increase investments in Uganda in the health, education, hotels, aviation, and energy sectors because the country is key as one of the recognised homes of the Ismaili community around the world, complete with a fully-fledged diplomatic mission.

The EastAfrican was born out of the Aga Khan's long-held vision to create a cross-border publication serving Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The late spiritual leader was closely involved in the paper's development, from its masthead design to the quality of its content.