Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
While many of Africa’s wealthiest individuals are seasoned veterans in business, a notable few have achieved billionaire status at a younger age. Excelling in technology, manufacturing, and real estate, these entrepreneurs exemplify innovation and determination. According to Forbes, here are the five youngest billionaires in Africa, with the youngest just 43 years old.
Tope Awotona (43) – Net Worth: $1.4 Billion
Nigerian-born Tope Awotona is the founder of Calendly, a widely used scheduling software valued at $3 billion. His journey began in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to Atlanta, Georgia, following a family tragedy. Awotona turned personal loss into motivation, earning a business degree and working for top companies like IBM before founding Calendly in 2013. The platform now serves over 10 million users globally, streamlining scheduling for businesses. His story is a testament to resilience and entrepreneurial vision.
Mohammed Dewji (49) – Net Worth: $1.8 Billion
Tanzanian mogul Mohammed Dewji leads MeTL Group, the country’s largest conglomerate, with operations spanning 11 African nations and industries like manufacturing, trade, and finance. Dewji transformed his father’s business into a billion-dollar empire. Beyond his corporate success, he is a dedicated philanthropist, funding healthcare, education, and community initiatives across Tanzania.
Patrice Motsepe (62) – Net Worth: $2.7 Billion
Patrice Motsepe of South Africa made his fortune as the founder of African Rainbow Minerals, a leader in mining precious metals like gold and platinum. He also owns the Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club and holds shares in the financial services firm Sanlam. In 2008, Motsepe became the first Black African billionaire to feature on Forbes’ list. Through his foundation, he champions causes such as education, healthcare, and job creation.
Strive Masiyiwa (63) – Net Worth: $1.8 Billion
Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa founded Econet Wireless, a leading telecom company in Africa, and holds interests in Liquid Telecom, a major provider of internet services. His ventures extend to renewable energy, finance, and media, amassing him a net worth of $1.8 billion. Masiyiwa is also known for his philanthropy, particularly the Higher Life Foundation, which has provided education to thousands of African children since 1996.
Yasseen Mansour (63) – Net Worth: $1.2 Billion
Egyptian billionaire Yasseen Mansour is a prominent figure in the Mansour Group, a family business established in 1952. The group is a key distributor for GM automobiles and Caterpillar machinery in Egypt and beyond. Mansour also chairs Palm Hills Developments, one of Egypt’s largest real estate companies.
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