Africa in 2025 continues to rise as a continent of immense potential and prosperity. Its wealthiest individuals reflect a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, strategic investments, and innovation.
Here’s a closer look at the ten richest people in Africa this year and the industries that have made them icons of success:
1. Aliko Dangote (Nigeria) – $19.5 Billion
The undisputed titan of Africa, Aliko Dangote retains his position as the richest person on the continent. His conglomerate, Dangote Group, has expanded into green energy, exporting clean hydrogen to Europe and Asia. Dangote Cement remains a key pillar of his wealth, but his visionary investments in renewable energy and agribusiness have solidified his legacy.
2. Johann Rupert & Family (South Africa) – $13.8 Billion
Chairman of Swiss-based luxury goods company Richemont, Johann Rupert continues to dominate the luxury sector globally. His brands, including Cartier and Montblanc, saw significant growth due to increased demand for high-end goods in Asia and the Middle East.
3. Nassef Sawiris (Egypt) – $13.5 Billion
Nassef Sawiris has strengthened his position with investments in construction, fertilizers, and sports. His stake in Adidas and involvement with Aston Villa Football Club have showcased his diversified interests, while his Orascom Construction remains a powerhouse in infrastructure development.
4. Patrice Motsepe (South Africa) – $11.6 Billion
The mining magnate and owner of African Rainbow Minerals has expanded into sustainable mining technologies and green energy. As Africa’s first Black billionaire, his wealth reflects his commitment to innovative practices in the mining and renewable energy sectors.
5. Mike Adenuga (Nigeria) – $9.7 Billion
Mike Adenuga’s wealth stems from his telecom giant Globacom and his investments in oil production. The Nigerian tycoon has recently ventured into digital banking and fintech, creating platforms to boost financial inclusion in West Africa.
6. Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwe) – $7.3 Billion
The founder of Econet Group, Strive Masiyiwa, has seen exponential growth in his wealth through his telecom and tech ventures. His solar energy initiatives across Africa and investments in cloud computing have revolutionized access to clean energy and digital services.
7. Issad Rebrab & Family (Algeria) – $6.5 Billion
Founder of Cevital, Algeria’s largest privately-owned conglomerate, Issad Rebrab continues to dominate the food industry. Recent expansions into Europe and the Middle East have bolstered his fortune. His investments in water desalination technologies are positioning him as a leader in sustainable solutions.
8. Abdul Samad Rabiu (Nigeria) – $6.3 Billion
The chairman of BUA Group has made significant strides in cement, sugar, and real estate. His new joint ventures in power generation and agribusiness reflect a commitment to boosting Nigeria’s industrialization efforts.
9. Mohamed Mansour (Egypt) – $6.1 Billion
Mohamed Mansour’s diversified portfolio in automotive, retail, and financial services has seen robust growth. His family’s Mansour Group is a global leader in General Motors distribution and has expanded into tech investments in Silicon Valley.
10. Koos Bekker (South Africa) – $5.9 Billion
Known for transforming Naspers into a global tech investor, Koos Bekker’s wealth continues to grow through stakes in Tencent and other tech giants. His strategic pivot to AI investments has positioned Naspers at the forefront of Africa’s tech ecosystem.
