As the new year begins, Africa’s richest individuals strive to achieve previously unattainable goals.
These billionaires are not only responsible for growing their wealth but also that of their region’s economy, by extension.
With its wealth of natural resources, youthful population, and spirit of entrepreneurship, Africa is a continent filled with immense economic prospects.
Despite these perks, the continent still encounters several serious socioeconomic issues, such as unemployment, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure.
The existence of billionaires in Africa is essential for tackling these issues and promoting sustainable growth. This is one major reason why their influence is important.
Billionaires frequently own massive corporations across numerous industries.
Their enterprises provide jobs, stimulate economic activity, and make major contributions to national GDP.
For example, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has developed an empire that employs thousands both directly and indirectly through sectors such as cement, sugar, and most recently, oil refining.
Such enterprises boost local economies and provide communities with financial freedom.
Richest Africans among the world’s 500 richest people at the start of 2025
1. Aliko Dangote
Ranked the world’s 67th richest person, Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, widely recognized as Africa’s richest person.
He is a major player in several industries, including manufacturing and oil refinery amongst others. His net worth as of January 2025 stands at $28.1 billion.
2. Johann Rupert
Africa’s second richest person is Johann Rupert & family, who last year went head to head with Aliko Dangote for the title of the continent’s richest man. He is primarly into the luxury-goods business but has a diverse business portfolio. Bloomberg has him at its 171st position on its 500 list with a net worth of $13.7 billion.
3. Nicky Oppenheimer
Currently the world’s 219th richest person and the 3rd richest individual in Africa according to Bloomberg, Nicky Oppenheimer has a net worth of $11.5 billion at the start of the year. Oppenheimer is a key figure in administering De Beers, which his family has controlled for decades.
4. Natie Kirsh
Renowned Swazi-South African businessman and entrepreneur Nathan “Natie” Kirsh is well-known for his international ventures in financial services, real estate, and wholesale distribution. He is currently worth $9.33 billion and is the world’s 295th richest person. He is also huge in the food and beverages industry.
5. Nassef Sawiris
Nassef Sawiris is an Egyptian billionaire businessman and one of the most powerful people in Africa’s corporate scene. He owns 39% of OCI, a fertilizer company situated in Geleen, Netherlands, that was established through a demerger from Orascom Construction, his family’s original company. Nassef Sawiris is the world’s 323rd richest person with a net worth of $8.69 billion.
