The US magazine Forbes has published its annual list of the richest people in Africa, consolidated since 2015 under the title The Richest Africans. In its 2025 edition, the ranking sets an all-time record: 22 African billionaires appear on the list, all of them residents of the continent.
Forbes deliberately excludes millionaires of African origin who do not live in Africa, such as Elon Musk, Patrick Drahi, Patrick Soon-Shiong, Nathan Kirsh, Mohammed Al Amoudi, Adebayo Ogunlesi, Ivan Glasenberg, Mo Ibrahim and Tope Awotona. The focus of the publication is on highlighting the wealth generated and sustained within the continent.
Top richest Africans according to Forbes:
Aliko Dangote (Nigeria) - Cement and other industry tycoon continues to lead the rankings for more than a decade.
Johann Rupert (South Africa) - Investor and owner of luxury brands such as Cartier and Montblanc.
Nicky Oppenheimer (South Africa) - A former director of De Beers, he remains a key figure in the diamond industry.
Abdulsamad Rabiu (Nigeria) - Entrepreneur in the cement, sugar and real estate sectors.
Nassef Sawiris (Egypt) - Diversified investor with a strong presence in construction and European football.
Mike Adenuga (Nigeria) - Founder of telecommunications company Globacom and oil investments.
Issad Rebrab (Algeria) - Founder of the Cevital group, with businesses in food, industry and household appliances.
Mohamed Mansour (Egypt) - Businessman with interests in automotive, retail and construction.
Mohammed Dewji (Tanzania) - Young entrepreneur leading one of the largest conglomerates in East Africa.
Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwe) - Founder of Econet Wireless, with regional impact in telecommunications.
This list reflects not only the accumulation of wealth, but also the consolidation of strategic sectors such as heavy industry, telecommunications and distribution. Africa continues to show economic potential amid its challenges, with business leaders choosing to maintain and expand their empires within the continent.
Source: Forbes Magazine, @africaactual | 07-06-2025