1. Aliko Dangote (Nigeria)
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, commands a fortune of $11.5 billion. His expansive business empire, spanning cement, sugar, and oil refining, plays a pivotal role in Africa’s industrialization. The $19 billion Dangote Refinery is set to reduce Africa’s dependency on imported petroleum, solidifying his position as a key economic driver.
2. Johann Rupert (South Africa)
With a net worth of $11.1 billion, Johann Rupert leads Africa’s luxury goods sector as chairman of Richemont. His leadership in high-end fashion and watchmaking brands has elevated Africa’s presence in the global luxury market. Rupert also plays a significant role in South Africa’s economic and philanthropic landscape.
3. Nicky Oppenheimer (South Africa)
Once at the helm of De Beers, Nicky Oppenheimer has transitioned into sustainable investments, conservation, and venture capital. His $9.5 billion fortune now supports African startups, environmental initiatives, and agricultural advancements, shaping a more sustainable future for the continent.
4. Nassef Sawiris (Egypt)
Nassef Sawiris, with a net worth of $7.7 billion, is a powerhouse in construction and infrastructure. As the head of Orascom Construction, he plays a key role in Africa’s urban development. His investments in Adidas and major global projects further underscore his influence.
5. Nathan Kirsh (Eswatini)
Worth $7.3 billion, Nathan Kirsh is a retail and real estate mogul. His company, Jetro Holdings, dominates the cash-and-carry wholesale market in the U.S., bridging African business with international commerce. His investments in logistics and property development continue to strengthen Africa’s global trade ties.
6. Mike Adenuga (Nigeria)
With a fortune of $6.8 billion, Mike Adenuga is a leading figure in telecommunications and energy. As the owner of Globacom, he has significantly improved digital connectivity in Africa. His investments in oil and gas reinforce his dominance in the continent’s energy sector.
7. Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria)
Abdulsamad Rabiu, worth $4.9 billion, is driving Nigeria’s industrial expansion through BUA Group. His ventures in cement, sugar, and real estate have created thousands of jobs and strengthened Nigeria’s manufacturing sector. His latest projects focus on agriculture and infrastructure.
8. Naguib Sawiris (Egypt)
With a net worth of $3.8 billion, Naguib Sawiris is a major force in telecommunications, media, and mining. His leadership at Orascom Telecom has extended operations across Africa and the Middle East. His contributions to digital media and entertainment are positioning Africa as a rising content hub.
9. Mohamed Mansour (Egypt)
Leading the Mansour Group, Mohamed Mansour oversees a vast conglomerate involved in automotive, real estate, and consumer goods. His $3.3 billion empire continues to grow, with strategic investments in renewable energy and agriculture, bolstering Africa’s economic diversification.
10. Koos Bekker (South Africa)
Koos Bekker has been instrumental in Africa’s digital revolution. As a key figure behind Naspers, his investments in technology and e-commerce have shaped the continent’s media landscape. His $2.9 billion fortune reflects his impact on Africa’s tech-driven future.
These billionaires are shaping Africa’s economic landscape, fostering industrial growth, and creating employment opportunities, reinforcing the continent’s position in the global market.