With a cumulative wealth of over $100 billion for the first time ever, Africa’s wealthiest individuals have continued to shape the continent’s economic landscape through diverse industries, ranging from manufacturing and luxury goods to telecommunications and mining.
Here’s a look at the top African billionaires and the sources of their immense wealth according to the Forbes List of 2025.
Aliko Dangote (Nigeria) – $23.9 Billion
At number one and for the 14th consecutive time, the Nigerian remains Africa’s richest person, with a net worth of $23.9 billion. His conglomerate, the Dangote Group, dominates industries such as cement, sugar, and petroleum refining. The Dangote Refinery, which began full operations in 2024, processes up to 500,000 barrels of crude oil per day, significantly boosting his fortune.
Johann Rupert & Family (South Africa) – $14 Billion
Johann Rupert chairs Compagnie Financière Richemont, the Swiss-based luxury goods company known for brands like Cartier and Montblanc. His empire remains a global leader in the luxury sector.
Nicky Oppenheimer & Family (South Africa) – $10.4 Billion
Nicky Oppenheimer, former chairman of De Beers, has a net worth of $10.4 billion. After selling his family’s 40% stake in the diamond mining firm, De Beers to Anglo American for $5.1 billion in 2012, he has diversified his investments, including ventures in conservation and tourism.
Nassef Sawiris (Egypt) – $9.6 Billion
Nassef Sawiris leads OCI N.V., a global producer of fertilizers, and holds a significant stake in Adidas. His diversified interests have propelled his net worth to $9.6 billion.
Mike Adenuga (Nigeria) – $6.8 Billion
Mike Adenuga’s wealth of $6.8 billion stems from his ownership of Globacom, Nigeria’s second-largest telecom operator, and his ventures in oil exploration with Conoil Producing.
Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria) – $5.1 Billion
As the founder of BUA Group, Abdulsamad Rabiu has interests in cement production, sugar refining, and real estate. His strategic business expansions have earned him a net worth of $5.1 billion.
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Naguib Sawiris (Egypt) – $5 Billion
Naguib Sawiris, brother to Nassef, has a net worth of $5 billion, primarily from his investments in telecommunications. He played a pivotal role in the growth of Orascom Telecom and has diversified into media and technology.
Koos Bekker (South Africa) – $3.4 Billion
Koos Bekker transformed Naspers into a global e-commerce investor and media giant. His early investment in Tencent has significantly contributed to his $3.4 billion fortune.
Mohamed Mansour (Egypt) – $3.4 Billion
Mohamed Mansour oversees the Mansour Group, a conglomerate with interests in automotive distribution, consumer goods, and real estate. His net worth stands at $3.4 billion.
Patrice Motsepe (South Africa) – $3 Billion
Patrice Motsepe, founder and chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, has interests in mining metals such as gold, ferrous metals, and platinum. His net worth is $3 billion.
These individuals exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and economic influence that continue to drive Africa’s growth on the global stage. Some have also enjoyed immense political favors and monopolies.
Every other wealthy individual not on this list is either a millionaire or lower according to publicly known assets.